Grace Kolliesuah A Cousin’s Tribute to Aaron Brown I am still shocked with disbelief at the passing of my cousin Aaron Brown who left this earth unexpectedly on April 29, 2007, because he was so full of life. Aaron and I are maternal cousins. I am blessed to have the love of my extended family including my mother, Mary Ann Butler, and my sister, Gloria Butler, who are in Columbus, Ohio, with me, and the support of other relatives during this time. Aaron never met a stranger because he made everyone feel at ease with him. I know if Aaron had planned how to leave this earth, his plan would not have been too far removed from how he quickly left us, all speechless and stunned. Aaron always liked to be unpredictable about his life and plans and his leaving this earth, though unexpected, I believe, took him by surprise. Even though he lived his life as an unexpected surprise most of the time, I know with all my heart he would have wanted to prepare his children for his departure. Aaron loved his children beyond all measure and put their well-being ahead of his own needs. Although not physically present with them most of the time, Aaron’s children never questioned how much he loved them and sacrificed for them. Aaron was like a “big brother” to me. He touched my life in a profound way, just as much as I know that he touched so many lives. He enlightened us with his wisdom, and provoked our thoughts with his parables. Aaron had a way with words and stories that “brought home” the point. Aaron lived a simplistic life but was never a “simple” man. He was exquisite in his art, wisdom, and his personality. He lived a simplistic life because he was content and confident in himself. People around Aaron were influenced by his lifestyle because he didn’t need “much” to be happy in his life. In so doing, he helped us define ourselves. I know that Aaron’s time on earth came to an end, but his purpose continues and rests upon all of us who knew him and whose lives he touched through his words and his art. Aaron never believed in saying goodbyes, instead, he would say, “later.” I know with all my heart that God has a greater purpose so I am comforted in my grief by a passage in Hebrews 5:4, which states, “no one takes his honor upon himself, he must be called by God,” just as Aaron was. My life has been shaped by Aaron’s profound wisdom and exquisite artistic skills. I am glad I had the opportunity to briefly spend time with him. Aaron, I know you are still painting the next portrait, so, later . . .      Copyright © Grace Kolliesuah