We know and are thankful you are in a better place today. What a reunion this will be with your mother Grande Pierre, your sisters Gabrielle, Catalina, Yolande, Alberte, and your son Frerrot. The last few years were difficult for you. I know that you are very grateful for those that have cared for you around the clock: Nany, Mimi, Nadine, Francoise, Marie Denise, and the others for allowing you to have some dignity in the face of debilitating illness.

How we loved you. we really did. I have always admired everything about you. I only began to appreciate you the day that I understood the "context" and "purpose" of your motivation. You had the ability to get away with anything because by making all of us believe that you were always right.

We never questioned you, no one dared, after all you were Mr. C.

You had a boyish and mischievous smile with a twinkle in your eye. You walked with a slight bounce in your step and your stride had purpose. You had a playful mind, a kid at heart, always keen for a good Joke.

How many of us were still talking on the phone, thinking that you were still there, when in fact you were already gone?

We love you for all the times you have made us laugh. For years you have always been the center of all of our conversations and memories.

In understanding the "context" and "purpose" that gave you this great vision and determination that allowed you to have such an impact on Haitian society, we understood that you were no ordinary dad. Yes, even though you were not there at the soccer games, dance lessons, or math and science homework. You gave us something much more precious. You made us believe that we could do anything we wanted to do, go anywhere we wanted to go and walk with our shoulders straight and our heads up. You also showed us the real meaning of dedication, courage, and loyalty even in the face of danger. By watching you work, we also learned about work ethics and the meaning of keeping ones word.

At the end of the day, we also realized that many people in the audience and many more that are not here share the same sentiments.