In conjunction with the late Gary Leon Robert's birthday, here's a tribute for him. It was indeed heart wrenching when the news spread all over that Gary passed away. Those who got the news find it unbelievable and the condition he was in when the police found him in the stadium. I myself was pretty much saddened by the news. Everyone who knew him have a good impression of him and were impacted by him somehow or rather. Be it by his smile, hand shake, encouraging words, his superb ability in sports as well as academics, the achievements his has and the list just goes on.
Knowing him since we were in the same cg in youth group when we were about 15 years old, found him quite friendly though not really close with him as in best of friends. Reflecting back, from the youth camps that we went as a youth group, not leaving the conferences. It was indeed fun being with him as i remembered one of the Huge camp in Penang. Think it was already lights off and some of us sort of have an "illegal" gathering and when Gary spotted the person who was in charge of security who was having checks he told everyone at the gathering to run for cover and he ran quietly and sneaked back to his room.
I'm very sure there are many moments that we spent together as friends, having a game of futsal with him. Fascinated by his skills in that sport and brought good encouragement as a team-mate. Not scoring all the time but encouraging others to score by opening the chance for them to do so. It was encouraging to see that during Gary's wake service, the flocks of people who attended, different races, different generations. Both young and old alike. Church congregation or uni friends, childhood friends or those who heard his name or just seen him before once and so on where present. 22 years, one life, impacted many lives and hearts. A role model, a good example. Though very short the lifespan, through it all as God had already said to him, Gary: "Well done, my good and faithful servant" the talents Gary had, he multiplied it to a hundred fold. If it can be calculated, probably he excelled 200% in his lifetime. An achievement which hold the record that every few can break.
Now is the third week since Gary's passing. Many who are still lingering around in their hearts. Occasionally remembering the best of times they had with Gary. Or anyone who has the name Gary, it would remind them of the other Gary they knew who impacted them and brought joy, laughs in their life. We know Gary Robert is with the Lord Almighty, though it may seem very hard for us to let go of the fact that we have to move on with the life we have on earth without the presence of Gary Robert, we have hope and a future in Christ alone. Many may seek other ways to vanquish the sadness, it may be workable but it will just be temporary. On God alone can bring us through all the problems, like how God brought Gary through in his 22 years of living on earth, a faithful servant of God and a God fearing man. May God's peace, comfort and everlasting love be unto his family members, relatives and also to us all.
