Today I’m remembering my brother Julian, who was killed this day five years ago, in a motor-cycle accident near his country property.
As our brother, Damian, said in his eulogy for him; “There was an explosion of light too beautiful, and our dear Julian was shot into the Heavens, where he looks over us, forever in our hearts.”
I’m looking at a photo of Julian now that shows a man who’d recently turned 50 – proud of the windmill just installed on his acreage; the one that brought with it freshness, growth and new life. He squints against the sun but I’m struck by how unlined his face is, how he will be forever young – in contrast to his five other siblings who are growing older, tubbier and more lined.
That face is also on the verge of breaking into one of his big smiles. I can see one of his corny jokes taking shape, pre-empted by the emerging grin.
His death wreaked havoc, changing the course of the lives of his young family. But five years on it’s a relief to see they’ve turned a corner and life is looking up for them again. Their goals and aspirations nod to him, so he is not lost.
I miss you Julian. But I celebrate the fact that we had you.
I’m glad to know you have all turned a corner. Thank you for sharing. We all need to know we are not alone in these experiences. Xx
Thanks Mimi. Everyone has an experience like ours. Sharing the load of grief helps us all, I believe.
Thank you Margaret for this memory. Julian is so lucky to have had such a wonderful loving sister. And so am I.
Thanks Rosie…love having you in our lives too!
What a wonderful man.
I have been reflecting on the times we spent together. I was the pesky little kid from next door and he was the reluctant, but very effective, mentor to me.
As a boy, I enjoyed his patience, tenacity, spirit of adventure, and his sharp and very dry wit.
As a man I appreciate how important these qualities really are.
What a wonderful man!
Thank you Matt. I love the way the Wynn-Jones story threads its way into the Rice story. We are so lucky!
I was fortunate enough to work with Julian at McCarthy. He had such a beautiful kind soul and yes that ever present grin or cheeky joke kept things fun in the staff room. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I was fortunate enough to work with Julian at McCarthy. He had such a beautiful kind soul and yes that ever present grin or cheeky joke kept things fun in the staff room. I’m so sorry for your loss. I too think of him often and although I’ve since left Tamworth I am so happy to hear that his family is doing well.
Thank you Leanne! So glad to have reached someone who worked with him. Take care, Margaret