Steve McManis sent me his remembrance of Jim that he read at the memorial service:
Good Morning,
I stand before you today humbled and honored to share a few remembrances of my dear friend Jim Ehrlich.
My relationship with Jim spans some 20 or so years, and began just a little north of here in Concord at the home offices of Chubb LifeAmerica. Though we didn’t know it then, the journey we would take together would cross many thousands of air miles, entail countless hours of conversation and debate, create valuable programs, opportunities and support systems for a host of people we sought to assist, and ultimately, form a bond and a friendship between us that we bet would last a lifetime…and it seems we won that bet, albeit, way too soon.
Jim and I had what I would call a complimentary blend of skills; I being a bit more “sales and marketing” focused and Jim a bit more “analytical and technical” by nature. As you can imagine, this blend only yielded greater debate at times, but seemed to teach us a very valuable lesson early in our careers. You do need a lot of diverse skills…and some luck… to succeed.
Jim approached his work with a tenacity second to none I have witnessed. It was not uncommon in his early days of building his career, to work well into the late night and still be one of the first at his desk the next morning, right back at it. Though the eyes may have been a bit heavy, the spirit was strong and the determination was prevalent.
Throughout the years, our career paths evolved and took us in similar, but different geographic directions. We would see each other at destinations around the country, and interact with many of the same groups, but at different times. Some consistent comments always seemed to surface from folks I would see that had recently seen Jim, but didn’t know him too well, those being something to the tune of: How do you know if he’s upset, he’s always smiling? Does he really enjoy playing Devil’s advocate as much as it appears? (And one of my favorites) What does he do for fun…his own budget?
Truth be known, Jim made a fantastic impression with most everyone, and left an indelible mark on the business and personal lives of so many people throughout the entire country. He often commented to me that he felt lucky to do what he did and had the terrific opportunity to meet so many diverse and interesting people along the way. As you may have read some of the numerous postings on the blog from folks who knew Jim through a more professional relationship, the message always centered on his intelligence, compassion, assistance, camaraderie, and of course, good humor. The benefits of Jim’s guidance, creativity and inspiration to achieve success has manifested itself hundreds of times over, and will continue to grow and flourish in so many people that will do him proud, day in and day out, for decades to come. His goals and values will be represented by their actions, for he helped shaped their direction and thought process.
If you’re sensing a consistent theme in my message, you can clearly understand that Jim Ehrlich made a significant impact on those with whom he worked. He challenged you and tried to make you think and believe in what you were doing…not just do it for the sake of getting it done. He would rather do the “Right Thing” than the “Popular Thing”, and while that was not always an easy place to be, his determination in the pursuit of what was honest and sincere allowed for no other action.
I think overall, Jim operated with a simple motto in business and carried that same motto even more so in life…and that was -- “While authority can be given, respect can only be earned.” I think that is one of the very reasons he constantly sought to develop and expand his own personal knowledge. I think it is a core motive why he undertook the challenge of creating his own business; and, likewise, knowing when it was time to change courses and move forward from that plan. I think it is why he truly seemed content these last couple of years with his professional place and achievements…but yet why he also yearned to contribute more each and every day. I think it is why comments from co-workers indicate they are a better person for having worked with and known him. I think that’s why so many would call him a “True Professional”. And, I think it is why there was always a smile on his face when he was doing what he did.
_____________________________________________________________
On a more personal note, Jim and I shared many special times…both happy and sad over the years. He was one of the few people in my world that I looked forward to verbally sparring with, for I knew the motivation of our debate was healthy, and that we would have many laughs in the process of coming away with a keener sense of the issue. I was always intrigued by those times when he would stop, mid-sentence, and say “I don’t know…” but before I could say anything, he would start up…“but what if….” and go on from there.
He was always a trusted confidante, and I will miss the insight we shared on so many fronts. Jim was a catalyst in bringing people together, and I know in my heart that many of the casual relationships he might have innocently ignited will carry on with meaning and depth because of his involvement.
One of our last conversations together at hospice was intended to focus primarily on some financial concerns and logistics, but the conversation quickly evolved to reminiscing about so many great times shared over the years. We talked about what the world looks like today compared to a couple of decades ago, and how we emerged into the business community and learned so much, so fast, and how none of the basics we were brought up on seemed to fit anymore. It was a conversation I’m sure two colleagues and friends from many generations before us have had, time and time again; but to me, I will always remember it was with my very special friend Jim. “Oh, Stevo, it’s been too short…Where did the time go?” he asked…as that inquisitive look came across his face and he gazed into the room…and before I could respond, he proceeded to begin telling me…and I couldn’t get enough of all he had to say.
The morning Jim died, I read a reflection passage for the second Sunday in Advent. It described the term “angel” and talked about what angels do. The closing line in the reflection was this: “Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd.” I rejoice today in the fact that my friend will continue to be there as my angel, and as an angel for so many he encountered while here.
_____________________________________________________________
In closing, when I think of Jim…my colleague, my wine and cigar pal, my business confidante, and my very dear friend, there will always be one word that surfaces and clearly defines his multitude of accomplishments in the many aspects of his short, but fulfilling, life…and that word is SUCCESS. I believe this poem from Ralph Waldo Emerson says it all…
To laugh often and much,
To win the respect of intelligent people and affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.
May each of us, in our own way, strive to emulate Jim’s testament to SUCCESS.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Faith and a Sense of Connected-ness
Below is the remembrance that I wrote and read at Jim's memorial service:
Over the last year, Jim and I often spent time together while traveling for work. We both spent a fair amount of time in the NY area. In fact, whenever we would happen to both in the same area, we would make an attempt to get together for lunch or dinner. You could view it as a way of bringing a bit of “home” with you while on the road. Furthermore, what’s better than sharing dinner with a good friend when you would otherwise be alone? .
Earlier this summer, Jim had been on a business trip to NJ, but this time, I was working at home in NH. It was a Friday evening and both of our wives had arranged to go out with some their girlfriends from the neighborhood, for a “ladies night out”. I was appointed to mind the children; this included my three children and the two Ehrlich girls. The plan was for Jim to leave his meeting early and then meet up at my house for dinner.
As we all know, plans never work out as you expect them to. Jim experienced some major traffic coming up I-95. About half way through his journey, he called to give an update. I suggested that he take another route, to instead cut through some back roads (which I had taken myself countless times). I assured him that he would save at least an hour and avoid any possible traffic.
Jim was open to my suggestion, so he proceeded to the new route. Along the way, he was unfortunately stuck behind a slow driver. After eventually passing the driver, he decided to drive a little faster than he normally would, in order to make up some time. Waiting around the corner was an eager state trooper with his radar gun. After a little deliberation, Jim received but a mere warning. It was likely Jim’s smile that won the state trooper over.
When he arrived at my house, though late, I was happy to see him; after all I had 5 kids on my hands and was hungry. We sat down and had dinner. We laughed about his trip and how he had avoided a potential speeding ticket.
Our discussion that night ranged from talking about work, family, and then eventually onto God. We talked specifically about our small group; we were starting a new season in our Christian walk and both of us had ideas as to what we wanted to accomplish this time around.
By the way, for those of you who don’t know what a small group is, it’s a bible study group, not a group of small people. In our case, it started as a group of acquaintances from our church, all of us couples, roughly the same age, but it grew over time to become a group of close friends, that which, I could never imagine being apart from.
In essence, a small group is meant to enable learning and sharing with one another, and ultimately to build a sense of Christian fellowship with one another. It allows the church body to focus in more into smaller segments, to affect real transformation, by connecting people together to study the Gospel.
That night, Jim said that he really wanted to “know” the people in his small group. It was his desire to move beyond small talk and pleasant conversation, rather -- to become deeply “connected” with one another. His decision to join a small group meant that he would allow strangers into his life and that he would share some of the most personal of details about his relationships, family, future dreams/aspirations, and most importantly his belief in God.
This notion of “connected-ness” was representative of Jim’s “availability” for others. Many have commented on the blog that when Jim was engaged in conversation with someone, he listened intently, looked them in the eyes and expressed genuine interest in what was said. This was indicative of how Jim cared for others.
But he sought the same for himself. What he really wanted was “parity”. Jim craved connection with others, especially those on the same faith journey as his. He desired to grow “together”, to be there for one another, not only the good times, but the bad times as well.
His faith though, was not exclusive – he didn’t want to hide it, but rather to share it. Even within the last few weeks of his life he recounted to me an opportunity to discuss God as the source of his inner strength with many and how happy it made him feel to minister to them -- as they were facing the reality of losing him.
If you asked Jim, he would considered himself a “junior” member of the small group, often saying he had “so much more to learn” -- I would say that in the time I’ve known him, he grew in his faith and understanding immensely. This is someone who read the bible from start to finish, in actual chronological order.
For those of you who knew Jim, you know that he was extremely analytical. He would often ask vexing questions each week, within our meetings. This would not only enable us to challenge our own understanding but for us to grow in our knowledge of the Gospel. Some might call these tangents; I would call them “intersections”, something that lead you to a new and exciting perspective that you might not otherwise explore.
His perspective often brought new ways of looking at things and allowed us to engage in meaningful debate. Ultimately, it allowed us to learn more about the bible and each other. With Jim in the room, small group wasn’t a ritual, it was the main event that you didn’t want to miss and didn’t want to end.
There are two things that were undeniable about Jim – first his good nature and second, his thirst for knowledge. These two qualities are mentioned specifically in 2 Peter:
It reads:
5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith -- goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;
It goes on to say:
6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.
10Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure.
For if you do these things, you will never fall, 11and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
If you look around, each of us is somehow connected to Jim.
I believe that God has enabled us with an amazing opportunity to get to know Jim. He allows us to be inspired by Jim’s life and deeply moved by death; and by doing so, God has built a connection between us that will never end.
Though I am sad to have lost my dear friend, I am thankful to God for the moments he allowed me to share with Jim -- and to have been “connected” with him, through our shared faith in Christ.
Over the last year, Jim and I often spent time together while traveling for work. We both spent a fair amount of time in the NY area. In fact, whenever we would happen to both in the same area, we would make an attempt to get together for lunch or dinner. You could view it as a way of bringing a bit of “home” with you while on the road. Furthermore, what’s better than sharing dinner with a good friend when you would otherwise be alone? .
Earlier this summer, Jim had been on a business trip to NJ, but this time, I was working at home in NH. It was a Friday evening and both of our wives had arranged to go out with some their girlfriends from the neighborhood, for a “ladies night out”. I was appointed to mind the children; this included my three children and the two Ehrlich girls. The plan was for Jim to leave his meeting early and then meet up at my house for dinner.
As we all know, plans never work out as you expect them to. Jim experienced some major traffic coming up I-95. About half way through his journey, he called to give an update. I suggested that he take another route, to instead cut through some back roads (which I had taken myself countless times). I assured him that he would save at least an hour and avoid any possible traffic.
Jim was open to my suggestion, so he proceeded to the new route. Along the way, he was unfortunately stuck behind a slow driver. After eventually passing the driver, he decided to drive a little faster than he normally would, in order to make up some time. Waiting around the corner was an eager state trooper with his radar gun. After a little deliberation, Jim received but a mere warning. It was likely Jim’s smile that won the state trooper over.
When he arrived at my house, though late, I was happy to see him; after all I had 5 kids on my hands and was hungry. We sat down and had dinner. We laughed about his trip and how he had avoided a potential speeding ticket.
Our discussion that night ranged from talking about work, family, and then eventually onto God. We talked specifically about our small group; we were starting a new season in our Christian walk and both of us had ideas as to what we wanted to accomplish this time around.
By the way, for those of you who don’t know what a small group is, it’s a bible study group, not a group of small people. In our case, it started as a group of acquaintances from our church, all of us couples, roughly the same age, but it grew over time to become a group of close friends, that which, I could never imagine being apart from.
In essence, a small group is meant to enable learning and sharing with one another, and ultimately to build a sense of Christian fellowship with one another. It allows the church body to focus in more into smaller segments, to affect real transformation, by connecting people together to study the Gospel.
That night, Jim said that he really wanted to “know” the people in his small group. It was his desire to move beyond small talk and pleasant conversation, rather -- to become deeply “connected” with one another. His decision to join a small group meant that he would allow strangers into his life and that he would share some of the most personal of details about his relationships, family, future dreams/aspirations, and most importantly his belief in God.
This notion of “connected-ness” was representative of Jim’s “availability” for others. Many have commented on the blog that when Jim was engaged in conversation with someone, he listened intently, looked them in the eyes and expressed genuine interest in what was said. This was indicative of how Jim cared for others.
But he sought the same for himself. What he really wanted was “parity”. Jim craved connection with others, especially those on the same faith journey as his. He desired to grow “together”, to be there for one another, not only the good times, but the bad times as well.
His faith though, was not exclusive – he didn’t want to hide it, but rather to share it. Even within the last few weeks of his life he recounted to me an opportunity to discuss God as the source of his inner strength with many and how happy it made him feel to minister to them -- as they were facing the reality of losing him.
If you asked Jim, he would considered himself a “junior” member of the small group, often saying he had “so much more to learn” -- I would say that in the time I’ve known him, he grew in his faith and understanding immensely. This is someone who read the bible from start to finish, in actual chronological order.
For those of you who knew Jim, you know that he was extremely analytical. He would often ask vexing questions each week, within our meetings. This would not only enable us to challenge our own understanding but for us to grow in our knowledge of the Gospel. Some might call these tangents; I would call them “intersections”, something that lead you to a new and exciting perspective that you might not otherwise explore.
His perspective often brought new ways of looking at things and allowed us to engage in meaningful debate. Ultimately, it allowed us to learn more about the bible and each other. With Jim in the room, small group wasn’t a ritual, it was the main event that you didn’t want to miss and didn’t want to end.
There are two things that were undeniable about Jim – first his good nature and second, his thirst for knowledge. These two qualities are mentioned specifically in 2 Peter:
It reads:
5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith -- goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;
It goes on to say:
6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.
10Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure.
For if you do these things, you will never fall, 11and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
If you look around, each of us is somehow connected to Jim.
I believe that God has enabled us with an amazing opportunity to get to know Jim. He allows us to be inspired by Jim’s life and deeply moved by death; and by doing so, God has built a connection between us that will never end.
Though I am sad to have lost my dear friend, I am thankful to God for the moments he allowed me to share with Jim -- and to have been “connected” with him, through our shared faith in Christ.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Roommates...
From Dean Soldatos (Jim's old college roommate):
To the Ehrlich and Anderson families:
The last time I saw you all together was at the wedding.
I cannot find the words to express the grief I feel, I am still trying to make sense of all this. I cannot imagine what you must be going through feel. I miss Jim like I miss a family member.
I am Jim's old roommate from college. I am a Greek-American who grew up in Switzerland. I have many pictures of Jim and me together. All of them show a very happy, fulfilled person wearing that big grin of his. I love and will have a big hole in my friendship space in this world.
I had the privilege to speak with Jim for about an hour and a half on the 9th of November. We had a long talk, and spoke about pretty much anything that was going through our minds. (we have done this since college freshman year in 1982, mentally "jazz-riffing" off of each other).
Not easy to say good-bye to a friend. In a cruel frustrating ambivalence, it was both the best, and worst, conversation I ever had with him.
To borrow from another religion, as the Jewish Kaddish ( a kind of "departure" prayer) tries to say, it "expresses love of God and acceptance of God's will, even while the mourner is feeling sorrow over the death of a loved one".
I for one will miss this friend deeply, but he has joined my parents in Heaven. In my Greek-Orthodox Christian religion, we never speak of death, we speak of "falling asleep with God." . The Greek word for sleep is *kemesis* and the place we sleep is a *kemeteryo* ... gives us the word cemetery.
I know that Jim sleeps blissfully. He carries with him the knowledge of the love we all have for him, now and forever, unto the ages of ages.
Sleep, my brother Jim, sleep peacefully.
You have meant so much to me in the last 26 years. I will never forget you in this life, and I know you watch down on all of us from the place you are now.
Dean ("Dino") Soldatos
Switzerland
Below is a picture of Jim and Chris with Dean (in the center), May 2003:
To the Ehrlich and Anderson families:
The last time I saw you all together was at the wedding.
I cannot find the words to express the grief I feel, I am still trying to make sense of all this. I cannot imagine what you must be going through feel. I miss Jim like I miss a family member.
I am Jim's old roommate from college. I am a Greek-American who grew up in Switzerland. I have many pictures of Jim and me together. All of them show a very happy, fulfilled person wearing that big grin of his. I love and will have a big hole in my friendship space in this world.
I had the privilege to speak with Jim for about an hour and a half on the 9th of November. We had a long talk, and spoke about pretty much anything that was going through our minds. (we have done this since college freshman year in 1982, mentally "jazz-riffing" off of each other).
Not easy to say good-bye to a friend. In a cruel frustrating ambivalence, it was both the best, and worst, conversation I ever had with him.
To borrow from another religion, as the Jewish Kaddish ( a kind of "departure" prayer) tries to say, it "expresses love of God and acceptance of God's will, even while the mourner is feeling sorrow over the death of a loved one".
I for one will miss this friend deeply, but he has joined my parents in Heaven. In my Greek-Orthodox Christian religion, we never speak of death, we speak of "falling asleep with God." . The Greek word for sleep is *kemesis* and the place we sleep is a *kemeteryo* ... gives us the word cemetery.
I know that Jim sleeps blissfully. He carries with him the knowledge of the love we all have for him, now and forever, unto the ages of ages.
Sleep, my brother Jim, sleep peacefully.
You have meant so much to me in the last 26 years. I will never forget you in this life, and I know you watch down on all of us from the place you are now.
Dean ("Dino") Soldatos
Switzerland
Below is a picture of Jim and Chris with Dean (in the center), May 2003:
Thursday, December 11, 2008
An old friend looks back and remembers Jim...
From Russ Whinnem (an old friend of Jim's from Natick):
To the Ehrlich family,
To the Ehrlich family,
My heart, and the hearts of the entire Whinnem family here in Natick, go out to you during this incredibly difficult time. Words are impossible when trying to make sense of such a loss.
It had been many years since I've seen Jim. But my memories of growing up with your family right around the corner remain vivid. Your home was the frequent playground for a bunch of us, and countless games of street hockey and basketball were played in your driveway. While Steve and I were close, and in the same class, Jim was always a part of the fun. Even as a youngster, he was comical, at ease with anyone around him, and had a quiet confidence in who he was. He and I shared numerous laughs growing up, idolized some of the same athletes, and found common ground in so many areas. I can never remember having a disagreement with him (or any of the Ehrlich's) that wasn't solved with a smile and a joke within minutes – not always an easy accomplishment when you're kids.
It is clear to see by reading the memories and thoughts so lovingly displayed on this page, that Jimmy had indeed grown into the man that I always thought he would, and then some. I have been moved by his love for family, friends, God, and every day that he had, even when he found out what was ahead. I am proud to say that I knew such an individual, even if it was only when we were kids. It is people like Jim that make us all want to be a little better in our own lives each day.
In my work as a sports associate producer, I often work with ESPN. This week the network is celebrating "Jimmy V Week", a yearly tribute to Jim Valvano, the former North Carolina State basketball coach, and his valiant fight against cancer 15 years ago. Last night they replayed his remarkable and famous speech at the ESPY Awards in 1993, shortly before his passing. As I listened to the end of that speech, and I remembered reading on these pages how strong and philosophical Jim was when his own cancer was diagnosed, I couldn't help but think that these words were as appropriate for him as they were for Coach Valvano.
Coach Valvano said… "Cancer can take away my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind. It cannot touch my heart. And it cannot touch my soul. And those three things are going to carry on forever"
God Speed Jimmy… You clearly touched so many in your life. Even some from way back in the day who won't forget the times we shared.
Peace,
Russ Whinnem
Monday, December 8, 2008
Obituary
Bedford, NH—James E. Ehrlich, 44, passed away Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH from a short but courageous battle with melanoma cancer. Jim was born on June 6, 1964 in Poughkeepsie, NY, son of Janet and Edward C. Ehrlich, Jr. of Hilton Head Island, SC. Raised in Natick, MA, Jim graduated from Natick High School in 1982, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He graduated from Columbia University in 1986 with a degree in industrial engineering, and was captain of the varsity swim team.
Jim was employed by Chubb Life in Concord, NH for over a decade, and later moved to Houston, TX for employment with American General Life from 1998-2002. From 2002-2004 Jim ran his own voluntary insurance company from Bedford. Jim’s most recent position was Client Executive for Marsh & McClennan. His strong work ethic and enduring optimism made him the ideal colleague, problem solver, and peer mentor. He was a man of honesty and integrity, respected by all who had the pleasure of working with him. He was truly a humble gentleman.
Most known for his animated, witty sense of humor, Jim could have you laughing hysterically at his quick one-liners and polished joke telling. His permanent smile and sparkling blue eyes could light up a room. He instantly made others feel comfortable, and would do anything to help someone in need. Children of all ages flocked to him like the Pied Piper. He was everyone’s Uncle Jimmy. He brought out the best in others, and was a tremendous encourager, leader, and exemplary role model.
Jim’s high energy level was an incredible asset, especially when he applied it to his favorite hobbies and sports. He loved fishing, board games, do-it-yourself projects, vacationing at Cape Cod and Newfound Lake, and spending quality time with his family. Throughout his life he enjoyed tennis, golf, basketball, and working out, but his real passion was swimming. In 1981 and 1982 he received the Boston Globe All-Scholastic Boys Swim Team award in 100-meter backstroke, and set numerous swim records at Natick High School and with the Barracudas team.
The two most important things to Jim were his faith and his family. He applied his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ to everything he did, giving him true meaning and purpose for his life. He was particularly fond of his fellow believers at Bedford Community Church, and the group of close friends that shared in his spiritual journey.
Jim’s devotion to his wife and children was undeniable and abundant in love. He is survived by his beloved wife Christine G. (Anderson) Ehrlich and two daughters, Dana (7) and Lauren (9). He also leaves five siblings: Susan Ehrlich (AZ), Catherine Ehrlich (NY), Stephen Ehrlich (PA), John Ehrlich (GA), and Karen Zotos (TX), as well as eleven nieces and nephews.
Despite the negative news we continually hear, Jim was a reflection of all that is still good in the world. He will be immeasurably missed by all who knew and loved him. A memorial service will take place Saturday Dec. 13, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Crown Plaza Hotel, Nashua, NH. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the James Ehrlich Memorial Fund c/o TD Banknorth, 184 Route 101, Bedford, NH 03110. To post a memory, photo or read more about Jim’s life, go to www.tributetojim.blogspot.com
Jim's Memorial Service - Please Read
A memorial service will be held this Saturday, December 13, 2008.
Seating begins at 10:30 with the service beginning promptly at 11:00 a.m. at the Crown Plaza Nashua Hotel, Somerset Ballroom.
After the service, light refreshments will be served in the ballroom.
Seating begins at 10:30 with the service beginning promptly at 11:00 a.m. at the Crown Plaza Nashua Hotel, Somerset Ballroom.
After the service, light refreshments will be served in the ballroom.
Crown Plaza Nashua
2 Somerset Parkway
Nashua, NH 03063
(603) 886-2700
There is a block of rooms reserved under Ehrlich should you need to make overnight reservations.
If possible, please RSVP to spellicys@comcast.net so we can get a general headcount.
At the request of the family, adults only please.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Holding hands until the end
Chris sent me another picture from earlier this morning.
In Jim's last few hours, she promised she would not let go of his hand.
It reminded her of the song by Matt Redman called "You Never Let Go". What's really amazing is that about the same time that this picture was taken, in a church about 10 miles away, we were singing this exact song for Jim.
The song talks about how even in the darkest times, God is there for us.
An excerpt from the song:
Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me
And I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
We’ll live to know You here on the earth
I hope that you can find some comfort in it, I know that I do.
In Jim's last few hours, she promised she would not let go of his hand.
It reminded her of the song by Matt Redman called "You Never Let Go". What's really amazing is that about the same time that this picture was taken, in a church about 10 miles away, we were singing this exact song for Jim.
The song talks about how even in the darkest times, God is there for us.
An excerpt from the song:
Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me
And I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
We’ll live to know You here on the earth
I hope that you can find some comfort in it, I know that I do.
Last thoughts
What a pleasure it has been to have known such a great man. His demeanor permeated every room into which he walked. His kind, gentle smile was warming every time I saw him. As I read some of his "Get Well" cards yesterday, it was evident that he will be missed by many. All your words were a testimony to his impact on your lives as well.
As much as we (I) love this world, it can be cruel. I know he has gone to a better place; one that he has been wondering about for many years. He often asked me and my fellow "small grouper(s)" deep questions that most non-theologians could not answer. Today, Jim has had all his questions answered! Jim will enjoy watching his 3 "girls" grow in stature and in Christ.
He has left a wonderful mark on my life, this community and his workplace. I am a better man for knowing him. Thanks Jim. I owe you. Love you.
As much as we (I) love this world, it can be cruel. I know he has gone to a better place; one that he has been wondering about for many years. He often asked me and my fellow "small grouper(s)" deep questions that most non-theologians could not answer. Today, Jim has had all his questions answered! Jim will enjoy watching his 3 "girls" grow in stature and in Christ.
He has left a wonderful mark on my life, this community and his workplace. I am a better man for knowing him. Thanks Jim. I owe you. Love you.
Time for us to say goodbye...
Jim Ehrlich passed away earlier today -- December 7th 2008, at 12:12 PM.
He died peacefully with his wife Chris at his bed side. Jim's brother in-law Woody Anderson was also there, but he had just left the room and it was just Jim and Chris. It's as if Jim was waiting for the right moment to leave. A private goodbye in the few last minutes with her.
Below is a picture of Chris holding Jim's hand from earlier this morning (around 8 AM):
Although I report his passing with great sadness, we can rejoice knowing that Jim will no longer feel any pain, despair, or sadness. Jim is truly in a much better place. A place where there is no suffering, only love, and where he can be with Jesus. Something he was looking forward to.
Psalm 23 is particularly relevant as we are faced with this loss, but we know God will comfort us and that Jim is in eternal peace with his Heavenly Father.
Psalm 23 (NIV):
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
To Jim -- I love you very much, I learned so much from you, in such a short period of time. Although I will miss you greatly here on Earth, I know that it's not goodbye forever and that we will see each other again someday.
Your friend and brother in Christ,
Stephen
He died peacefully with his wife Chris at his bed side. Jim's brother in-law Woody Anderson was also there, but he had just left the room and it was just Jim and Chris. It's as if Jim was waiting for the right moment to leave. A private goodbye in the few last minutes with her.
Below is a picture of Chris holding Jim's hand from earlier this morning (around 8 AM):
Although I report his passing with great sadness, we can rejoice knowing that Jim will no longer feel any pain, despair, or sadness. Jim is truly in a much better place. A place where there is no suffering, only love, and where he can be with Jesus. Something he was looking forward to.
Psalm 23 is particularly relevant as we are faced with this loss, but we know God will comfort us and that Jim is in eternal peace with his Heavenly Father.
Psalm 23 (NIV):
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death, [a]
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
To Jim -- I love you very much, I learned so much from you, in such a short period of time. Although I will miss you greatly here on Earth, I know that it's not goodbye forever and that we will see each other again someday.
Your friend and brother in Christ,
Stephen
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Another Natick Perspective
From Bryan King (an old friend of Jim's from Natick):
Like many who have written before about Jim, there is no denying what he others like him did for the sport of swimming in the early 80's. I joined the Natick summer team at age 9, and Jim was already tearing things up. His brother John and I were the same age, and the rest of the Ehrlich clan was part of that summer team. As they got older, some kids pursued different teams, with better opportunities. I could not. But that didn't mean I lost touch. I played at the Ehrlich house, in the tennis courts, around the yard, and had fun with everyone. Summer Swim team parties where 100 kids were running around while the parents hung out inside were some things I could never forget. And then there was the year we won everything in that summer league. We won all the meets, the regionals and the Mile Swim. The Mile Swim is an event still run today in Sherborn where roughly 60 kids swim across and back a pond. That year Natick went 1,2,3,5,6. (Jim was 2nd J). I went to that event and just was so impressed.
Then I got to high school. Again, I was not real good, but could hold my own. Steve was a senior that year, and Jim was a junior. John a sophomore. I was in shock what I was seeing in meets. And it only got better my junior year. We won the league for the second time in a row. And in the states, Natick was sectional runner-up, due to Jim, Steve Ruiter and Lloyd Pierce (who both wrote things already below) John, and a few others. I was not there. But I read the articles, and I listened at the banquet to the words of these great swimmers. If you are from the Natick area, you probably only know of football, and maybe the other bigger sports as getting all of the limelight. But what happened during that year changed the face of swimming in Natick forever! In my senior year, when only John was left on the team, I got better, helped out where I could, and we were able to pull off another league title…the last time is has ever happened in Natick history.
After that year, we all went our separate ways…and I swam in college. But in 1990, I had the chance to do something very few ever can say they did, and it was to go back to my high school and coach. From 1990-1994 I was coaching the Natick Boys, and there were some great swimmers. In 1991 we had our last meet of the season with Framingham (big rivalry), and we were both tied for first. I took my team into the High School gym and showed them the banners form the early 80's. I talked about names such as Shedd, Ruiter, Ehrlich, and Pierce..I told them about tradition, I told them what this meet meant….well, we lost the meet in the last race, but I remember vividly the other coach, who was coaching in the early 80's and still is coaching today tell me, wow, these kids you have swum incredibly, they reminded him of those kids from the early 80's. It felt nice hearing that.
I am still coaching today, and each winter I have kids who go to the Sectionals and States. Up until two years ago, Jim still had a state record. Imagine that, 25 years and it had not fallen. When the young man from BC broke it, I went into the stands. I talked to him about Jim, and who he was, what he meant to swimming, and what he did for Natick. This boy (who was a senior in high school) cried. He said he felt so touched by what he heard, and felt honored to break the record of such a great person.
This time is difficult for all involved with Jim I am sure. My mom still talks about those summers at Dug Pond, and how the parents were so close, and the kids just played so nice together. But my memories continue to make me smile when I think of the old days, and hope that I can continue some of the traditions of Natick swimming living on forever.
God Bless you Jimmy, your family and all involved in this difficult time.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Growing up with Jim
From Lloyd Peirce (a childhood friend of Jim's):
Jim:
Just heard about what you are going through - and it has brought back very old and enjoyable memories.
Have been remembering our childhood growing up in Natick and playing and sleeping over at your parents house on Pond Street. Have many fond memoirs off playing in the side , back yard – inside and doing who knows what but spending hours just enjoying life over at your house and with out any worries (to be young again).
Than years later when I finally join the cudas and joined in the car pooling duties to Westwood at a way to early time in the mornings - and the awesome high school swim team that we belonged to and that you were a major reason of why we were so good.
Have been thinking of my childhood and how you are your family were a major part of it these last few days - and my thoughts and prayers are with you , your family and all your siblings -
Lloyd Peirce
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