Mark was a much needed positive male role-model in my life. Even having only known me for a week, he was able to see right through me and give me some of the best advice I will always remember. He wanted me to take care of me, and openly offered to provide all the emotional support I needed to get the job done. His stories stayed with me, and largely shaped my personality long after we had parted ways. I have a list of positive men that have helped shape my world, and Mark is right there at the top. I miss him, but something in me has settled on the thought that he is too "magnanimous" for something small like death. Even with his passing he is teaching me to have faith and "make it real."