Barbara, thank you so much for sharing your story of your friend, Rich. How sad for you to have lost this friend, and how sad to have not been able to help him.

He must have been in terrible emtional pain and it is good that you spoke to him. Your voice was his strength and he must have loved you a lot to want to have that one last word.

I do not begrudge a person who wishes to leave this world. It is sad for those left behind, but your closing verse says so much about you and about Rich. He was lucky to have you both as friends and I certain that he appreciated your friendship.

Peace and love to you.