Last week, a body was found in the Park ridge Forest Preserve, fifty feet from the sidewalk. The body's hands and face were decomposed and there was a wound in the head. A few days later the body was identified. John Tsichlis, husband and father of three sons. Investigators then declared that he died of a self-inflicted wound, suicide. The middle child, Louie Tsichlis, 18 years old, is my good friend, now a friend who has to grieve the loss of his role model, best friend, and hero--his father.
I first heard of Louie's loss through facebook. He had written a long status expressing his feelings and how he was going to stay strong for his family. He stated: "My father raised his family with the most passion and love imaginable. Who would have known that all our amazing moments would suddenly end. . . One day I will be healed, but will forever live with the scar of a loss that will make me always remember how much I loved my father, and how much he loved his family and me. . . I promise myself and my family that I will be stronger than ever to fight through this indescribable pain and stay proud to who I am. My pride will make me strong, knowing that my father will always be looking down from Heaven at me, as proud of me as I was of him." To see a friend in such pain breaks my heart. I have been there for him, always trying to provide an escape or someone to talk to. However, when I am back at home I fall weak at the knees as someone mentions the loss. I cry for my friend; I cry for his family; I pray for them and his father, hoping they can overcome this pain. I have lost my grandma and others close to me, but to lose a father is nothing comparable to what I have experienced. I cannot dictate and put words to my feelings for Louie and his family. I pray that he will stay strong and turn to others, including myself, when in need. I am always here for you Louie.
This same week, a few days later, Apostolos Kougias passed away. A husband, father, grandfather, and friend. My friend Theo was a grandson filled with pain when he heard the news. He, too, felt sadness and pain. Although I have not known Theo for that long, I still pray for him, his family, and his pappou (grandfather in Greek). I lost my grandmother nine years ago and I remember the day like it was yesterday. I know it is hard, but it will only get easier. The love will never go away, just like the memories. I am here for you Theo, and I hope our friendship will only grow.
Everyone dies. But this doesn't mean that it is easy to watch someone die or live with a death. It affects everyone, even if they didn't directly know the person who passed away. I did not know Theo's pappou, nor Louie's dad, but I do know Louie and Theo. This stressful, sad week has taught me many different lessons. I have learned to value life and those around me more. I cherish the moments I spend with those I love and save the memories. I have learned that memories truly are eternal and I try to share this with Louie and Theo. I have learned that friends and family are critical to those dealing with a loss. I have reached out to both of them and have prayed every day. I cry for them and feel pain, but I know that I need to be strong for them in case they choose to turn to me. I love you Louie and Theo and am sorry for your losses. Just remember, they are looking down at you from Heaven, urging you to continue on with your life. And also remember that they are only gone if you dismiss them from your life. Keep them in your heart, in your mind. remember all the memories you had and cherish them. But remember to make new memories with friends and family. Just as Louie stated, make them your inspiration and make them proud.
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