Rick Allen

Rick entered my life when I was 20 years old. Growing up I haven't had many people who were kind to me or treated me with respect. Rick was the first one who showed me what genuine love and care is. Many people assume because Rick wasn't my biological father and came into my life when I was older, I didn't love him as much or that my loss isn’t as grand. But it's actually on contrary, because I haven't had anyone being so kind, genuine, generous and compassionate towards me I have never took it for granted. He might not have been a biological father but he was the best one I could ask for. I bragged about him every chance I got. My brother, Faruh wants to add that Rick took him as a wild little boy and raised him into a real man. Through many decisions that Faruh has made, Rick stood by his side patiently waiting, explaining and teaching Faruh the lessons of life. Living together those years Faruh learnt from Rick the meaning of the real family, love and expectance. And if this is not what real fathers do, I don’t know what else. Many times I went to him for advice, whether it would be spiritual, career or relationships. And It always surprised how much he believed and saw the best in people. He chose not to dwell on people’s weaknesses but always reminded why they are that way. He always gave people benefit of the doubt, and I admired that. Another reason why I will miss his advice he did not sugar coated it and always was so direct that the answer would be sometimes OUCH! Who I am today would not be without him, he gave me chances in life that a girl from Tajikistan could only dream of. I will miss his witty sense of humour, his ability to fall asleep literally anywhere, pauses that he would take in the middle of the sentences that leaves you wondering if he has fallen asleep again. We comfort ourselves with a thought that he had a good life and died doing what he loved. And this is all true, in fact, if you would asked him how he preferred to die this is how he would have chosen. But it is important to acknowledge all the what ifs that we are missing from now on. He won't be there to be meet his grandchildren. He won't be there to attend my graduation, and I know he would be that person who would fly from Scotland to Sydney just for few days (amid covid). It is important to acknowledge that we lost a father, a dear friend, an excellent climbing partner, and mentor. Faruh and I were his children, Rick has imprinted his kindness, compassion and love on us. Our kids will be raised on the crazy tails and lioness heart on grandpa Rick. And I would like to finish with this thought. Grieving is known for being a negative emotion as it’s overwhelming sadness. However, the only reason why we feel this level of sadness is because of the love we feel for that person we lost. The grief is actually the love we feel for that person. It’s a reminder that we loved once and that love will remain within us. Hence, grief is love persevering. Thank you