Randy and I were working together last year to plan a fundraiser for Uganda when I got to know him well. It was during that time that I saw his genuine, unbridled passion for helping those less fortunate through the power of love and music. It was also during that time that I was going through one of the darkest times in my life. Randy knew this, but also knew that being a part of such a powerful movement would be empowering for us both.
When I conveyed my sadness about the pressures of life and my constant bouts of sickness, he said, “You’re strong, Jacinta. You are stronger than you know. We both are. This is bigger than us. I believe in you!”
When I was in the hospital floating in and out of consciousness, he called, worried but full of hope. He said, “You can get through this, Jacinta. You have it in you and you have people rooting for you. I believe in you!”
When I cried, devastated that I was falling apart and upset that the event we had worked so hard on had to be canceled, he didn’t miss a beat, saying, “This is bigger than us. This is a movement that can’t be stopped. But right now, you have to remember to be strong. I believe in you!”
When I struggled early this year to get back on my feet, he had nothing but encouragement, even if he was going through his own issues. He said, “Be strong, Jacinta! You always have a friend in me. I believe in you!”
Four months ago, when I lacked confidence in my ability to stay on my feet, he would randomly call and say, “I believe in you, girl! You are strong and beautiful and there is nothing you can’t conquer!”
To Randy, who believed in me and never let me forget it, who saw the strength I couldn’t see and never ceased to remind me - thank you for your beautiful heart and endless capacity for love and compassion. Thank you for saying the words that I needed to hear to make my day, my week, my life a little happier, a little lighter. Thank you for understanding, thank you for caring, thank you for the legacy of love, peace, foundation and family that you have left behind to be carried on by your family, friends, and the world. Thank you for making me want to be a better person.
I still wake up every morning in disbelief. But I will carry your words, your beauty, and your loving kindness with me every day. I will work hard to pass on the unconditional love and respect you showed to myself and every person you met.
I miss you so much, Randy. Rest in paradise my dear, beautiful friend.
