Maurice, my cuz. Born in Sheffield before me. A 'Yorkshire lad' as they say, who went on to become a Londoner through and through. I confess I did not know you much in the early years. Both of us growing up and living in different cities. I may have in fact met you earlier, but my first memory of you in person was in my early teens. Later on I moved to London. Not living far from each other, you would come around and we got to know each other quite a bit. Opinionated as we were. Young and willing. We would discuss everything under the sun. We would disagree on many things and that gave way to long, intense studies of life, living, attitudes, gender roles, food etc,. At times things would become so heated. Then someone would attempt to defend the indefensible. To sway us to the unreasonable. They would say something so diabolical, it would halt all discussion. And after a brief pause to gasp in shock and horror, we would all look at each other whilst falling back on the chairs and floor in fits of laughter. Then after a quick recess. We would resume. Or rinse and repeat. Maurice had his own unique way. He knew who he was and was willing to defend himself regardless the consequences. That is the impression I got of him anyways. He was certainly not one who was "stamped out by the dozen". In a world where we are all taught to fit in, to follow the leader. Daring to show up as you are, requires bravery and is the gift of all gifts. So now we are left to face that which we would rather not. Because at it's core, it is far too painful to even contemplate. Yet alone navigate the true and deep emotional roller-coaster. Haphazardly swinging from moments of celebration to a reality check of sadness. From laughter to tears. Memory recall to silence.... ..,.A well earned pause to respect our brother and friend ~ Maurice. May the family find the strength to navigate this healing process. May they in time find eventual peace. May they find a balance. So that laughter and joy can continually fill their hearts at the realisation of how special and truly loved they were and are, to have had the presence of Maurice in their life. So let me end with the affectionate name I always called him ~ Baby Maurice? Love you always Cuz....Walk Good! Sandrea