#uncle appreciation

This tribute isn't a vent or anything of the lines. This is just simply me sharing the stories I have to share about my uncle.

My uncle was one who knew how to party. He knew how to keep up with a big family. How to keep all ages entertained. At parties he would help my parents open presents, pass cake out, and spoil us rotten.

He was also one of wise words. He had great advice. His advice wasn't anything like people sugar coating or invalidating your worries by claiming 'others have it worse'. He provided good advice. Help you see things differently. He helped those who were looking at something one way, look at the situation in a different way.

He had lots of humor. His humor varied as he just knew how to get a quiet room laughing and howling in seconds. You even knew how to make an awkward family reunion become more of a family gathering. Having those we haven't seen in years or those we've never met feel as of we were never strangers.

You helped those who were falling apart build themselves up because you didn't want them to lose the things they cherished as you did. You had suffered a lot yet you knew how to bring smiles.

No matter the situation. You always dropped everything and be there within minutes to help those who call out to you for help. You've done this with me and my family so many times I've lost count.

You hid your pain from those you cared about so you wouldn't have them worry. You had hid the fact you were in pain. Just to see your loved ones happy.

Your love was one that was unconditional and always surprising. You knew how to comfort people. You knew how to make their suffering slowly dissolve.

You. Made us feel like the emotional moments, you coming out to spoiling us. Wouldn't be the last we see you.

I will forever cherish the last moments we shared. The embrace you had given me after a horrible day that had occured. Plans of attending my graduation. Plans of joining my swear in ceremony with my family.

Your pain and endless fear of not knowing you would wake up the morning is no longer an issue as you are finally able to rest and be free of pain. But nothing will ever be the same. You were still very young. But those memories you have made will forever be cherished and shared. Which leads us today. As I share your story with others. For it is only right to share how much you have impacted my life. For now you rest but your legacy will forever live.

In memory of Lyle Ajoe Brooks. For not only were you a Son but also a father, partner and a uncle to many.

4/7/89 — 1/26/24

🕊💙