No one but me can save myself, but it’s too late
Now I can’t think, think why I should even try
Yesterday seems as though it never existed.
Death greets me warm, now I will just say goodbye

Metallica – Fade to Black

The world feels colder with the passing of another soul like Terry Williams, a person with the profound ability to change lives. There are individuals whose mere presence enriches the world, and Terry was one such person who has left an enduring mark on my life, shaping the person I have evolved into.

Terry radiated a welcoming spirit, and despite having his opinions, engaging with him left everyone touched in a positive way. His Facebook wall served as a testament to his humility, openly acknowledging mistakes alongside celebrating successes. Terry’s capacity to embrace both triumphs and errors as integral parts of his identity has etched a lasting impression.

A fundamental life lesson learned from Terry was the strength derived from embracing every facet of oneself. His impact on me transcends the confines of time, resonating into eternity. As people enter and exit our lives, there are those whose influence becomes an indelible part of our essence. The person I was before crossing paths with Terry has undergone a profound transformation, and even those who once knew me might find it challenging to recognize the person I’ve become—a testament to the integrity and dignity instilled by Terry, who saw beyond the nerdy, clumsy boy of the past.

Terry wasn’t just a friend; he played a pivotal role in a group that regularly convened for two years, embarking on adventures through dice-throwing escapades. He crafted a character that has become the cornerstone of my writing, playing, and dungeon mastering endeavors. Moreover, he played a crucial role in introducing me to the realm of information technology, steering my life in a direction I might not have envisioned. Without Terry Williams, my life’s trajectory could have taken an infinite number of directions, and for that, I am eternally grateful.