My post today, my first in a long while, is devoted to the loving memory of a good mate, Dave Burnett, 3/12/1985 - 22/1/2008.
When a good mate dies, especially so unexpectedly, there are no words to describe the number of thoughts and memories and feelings that come out of deep, hidden recesses.
Similarly, there are no words to describe Dave or the way that people in his life saw him. "Legend" doesn't cut it; nor does "top bloke". Dave may have approved of "champ" but that's definitely lacking.
One thing is for sure, whatever words one uses, and that is that Dave was an incredible guy and an inspiration to many.
He was one who was perpetually involved in the community and the world around him. Doing things and doing them well.
For a long time, Dave had been involved in various facets of Jewish life. His synagogue, Hineni, AUJS and many others. More recently, Dave found a passion in politics, getting heavily involved in the Labor Party and was last year elected to the board of the student union.
There is little doubt that, in Dave, we had someone who was truly going places and was going to lead the way with countless loyal devotees in tow.
But where he was heading is not the issue.
Dave was an incredible guy and an inspiration to hundreds and perhaps thousands of students, colleagues and chanichim. His attitude to life, to people, energised others and his contagious enthusiasm and effervescent personality made it impossible to not smile when he was around.
He brought light, laughter and love to those who knew him and will be sorely missed. The world is already a sadder place without him.
Dave leaves a legacy as an example to us all of how one can live in this world. To be active and effective, fun and friendly, innovative and honest.
None of us, I'm sure, can believe that Dave is gone; surely, somehow, he's looking down on us all. The greatest way we can honour him is to live as he did and strive to build the world that Dave would have wanted to see.
Dave, may your soul rest peacefully on High. We miss you terribly already and will continue to do, always.
