|
BYU-Hawaii sophomore James Warren died on Monday, June 2. I knew James, and considered him a friend, having worked with him at the library and sharing many common interests and acquaintances with him. You’ve probably seen him as well, checking out books at the library front desk or shelving them upstairs. You may remember his performance at Students with Guitars last Winter Semester, where he played an electric guitar solo behind his head and under his leg in the fashion of a true heavy metal legend. James was a rocker. I say that first, not to be irreverent, but because those who knew him best have pointed out that that’s how he’d like to be remembered, and I agree. Not only was he a gifted musician, but James marched to the beat of a different drummer. He had a talent for challenging the world and its conventions in a way that I found enjoyable and inspiring. He was an adept and remarkable writer, and a true poet: a title I personally hold in high regard and do not assign casually. I was impressed by his writing in a way I can’t describe. He also had a mind for philosophy and ideas. I could listen to him talk about Radiohead or Led Zeppelin one minute and Plato or Nietzsche the next, and he addressed any topic with eloquence and understanding. He saw things with a deeper gaze than most people I’ve met. He was easy to talk to and kind, charismatic, with an amazing sense of humor. I have heard from many people what a good person and good friend he was: generous, selfless, like a brother to many of us. I admired James and respected him. I felt a kinship with him that was unique and valuable to me. Having said that, I sincerely wish I’d known him better. In this time of tragedy, I think we would all do well to look at the people around us, from those we care about significantly to the ones we haven’t met. We should make a special effort to take care of them and to make their lives better. I say that not to remind us all of the unpredictable and sometimes brief nature of this life, but because James, in the short time I knew him, enriched my life, contributed to the person I am, and made me better. We’ll miss you, James. We miss you already. A memorial service will be held for James Warren at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 7 in BYUH Stake Center. Also counselors at the Counseling Center are available from 8 am to 11 pm every day (including Saturday and Sunday) this week and next for those who are grieving and would like to talk to someone. Additionally, condolences and messages to James family can be sent to
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
by Friday, June 6th. They will be added to a book for James' family.
|