Gary Higa

First, I must say I have one little regret-that I never got to personally pray with Gary. I did not know of his prayer warrior status, though I am not surprised to learn it! I'm sorry that I missed out on that. Now when I pray for you and your family, Gary, I can't help but imagine you listening in, and it is comforting. My first memory is of you recording a video message for Traci's bridal shower, I think it was. I was so impressed with you from that very moment. I believe Traci's friends were asking you questions off camera, and you answered them so wonderfully. You looked straight into the camera, making direct eye contact, and you spoke straight from the heart, honestly, genuinely, without any affect, but with ease, assuredness, and care. I knew this man was a winner, and was so happy for Traci. Genuine, through and through. A second memory, which left a deep impression, was when many of us were together at a hospital waiting room. A woman next to us unexpectedly began yelling very agitatedly. My instinct was fear and aversion. Look away and ignore, and maybe she won't escalate although she seems unstable. But Gary, you just turned to her looked her in the eye and calmly answered her question spoke to her in a normal way. And the woman was satisfied, and calmed down. How amazing. You made her feel seen and heard as a person and that was what was needed. These 2 memories epitomize who you are Gary. Our family holidays, reunions, and gatherings eating turkey, cranberry sauce, and playing recycle will never be the same without you. I love you and I'll miss you, but am grateful for knowing you, a real soul whisperer.