Six Months

Posted by Bob Greenberger on February 14, 2009

Farpoint is a smaller version of Shore Leave and through the years, as Robbie grew, he seemed to loom large over the con. He was the teen ringleader in the corridors, a constant presence during the masquerade, and a lively spirit.
His absence looms large this year, especially, today, as we mark the sixth month anniversary of his passing.
In the run up to the con, we were feeling somewhat anxious about being there, about being there as part of both Valentine’s Day and the anniversary. Being here, though, we’ve been showered with hugs and affectionate comments about him and his presence in their lives.
The con did a lovely job honoring him, starting with Ariel David’s loving tribute in the program book. Last night during their banquet, the committee spoke lovingly about him and announced that the Most Original masquerade prize was being named after him. We were given a replica of this year’s trophy as a memento.
Throughout today, his presence was keenly felt. At 4 there was a memorial for him in one of the larger programming rooms. About three dozen people attended and for an hour we told Robbie stories. Some we heard, some we were new to us which was lovely. There was laughter and tears but it was clear all over again just how many lives he touched in positive ways. It was a wonderful tribute to his spirit.
Truth to tell, there remain days where his death still feels unreal. I still think he’s at school or still at 7-West but then I see some tangible sign of his absence and a fresh wave of grief washes over me.