I met Eric "Smoov" at the rec center. I remember thinking "He's gonna be a lady slayer when he's grown" and then teasing him about his name. After that when he came in he'd say "Hi momma, how you been?", every time I saw him he'd give me a fist bump and that unforgettable smile. Smoov was a gentle spirit who lit up a room. I didn't know him that long or see him too often but he left an impression on me. When he came home from school, he leaned over the counter and hugged me and I told him I was proud of him and to not worry cause he was young and had time to be sure about what he wanted to do. Who knew his time would be stolen from him so soon? What I do know is this, he is in a better place now than us, many of us will see his beautiful soul on the other side when we get there and he will smile that Smoov smile as he tilts his head back a little. To his mom, there are NO words to sooth you or make this easier. I hope that in time you will be able to celebrate him without so many tears and that the tears you do shed will be from joyful memories of him. He's been on my mind since I found out and as a mother, it's a loss none of us want to endure. I pray strength and comfort for you and your family and that Eric will come to you when you are ready and let you know he's ok. I imagine my mom, who transitioned last year and who good souls were attracted to, will meet, comfort and sit with Smoov as he settles into eternity with GOD again. I have a vision in my mind of the two of them sitting on my porch swing and her just being there for him. She was special too. The world will be different without him on this side, however, he's now earned his wings and will live on through the MULTITUDE of friends, family, and acquaintances whose lives he touched and left wonderful memories with. Peace, comfort, rest, I pray for you today and each day after. Thank you for raising such a wonderful light and sharing him with us all.
R. Robinson