We do not always agree with everyone we work with, sometimes leading to engaging and frank exchanges of views. With these people we build relationships too and so it is equally sad to hear of their passing, especially when unexpected and at a very young age.

A man of fire, of reason stern and true,
Who walked the path where wisdom lights the way.
With steady voice he shaped the world anew,
Yet left no wound when words had had their say.

With iron mind and heart of tempered grace,
He held his ground, yet ever sought the right.
Though oft we clashed in thought’s contested space,
We parted friends, as brothers after fight.

But O, the fates have torn his life from time,
A wheel that turned, a shadow swift and blind.
No golden age, no wisdom’s height to climb,
No further words to challenge heart and mind.

Yet still he speaks in echoes bold and bright,
A flame undimmed against the falling night.