I know that Jim is in a better place and is okay. There is a reason why I know this. I experienced something that never happened to me. I dreamt of someone in a unique circumstance. I dreamt of Jim within a short timeframe of his passing. While this is very personal and would normally not share this, I wanted to elaborate on what the dream meant so that those that knew Jim may find a sense of comfort. Not knowing what date/time Jim passed away (only aware of when he was taken to the hospital – and updates he personally provided during that afternoon) - I dreamt of Jim that night. In my dream I was at work. I was on the CH2 Patio area and walking towards the set of double-doors which lead into the CH2 Café. I was still far away from those doors. Someone then opened the double doors and walked onto the patio area. At this time, the sun suddenly started shining above; thus silhouetting the person walking towards me. The rays of sunshine were bright and characteristic – as if to engulf/surround the person. I was partly blinded by this, but as the person moved closer, the sun dissipated and I noticed it was Jim. He was smiling and wearing his uniform (distinctive Red Polo). He then held his arms open in front of his body and continued to walk towards me. No words were spoken, but as he neared me, he gave me a hug. As this occurred, I awoke. Now, Jim was a “man’s man” and as kind as he was, he wasn’t necessarily touchy-feely. I’ve known him 16 years, but never hugged him. That morning, because of this dream, I didn't want to wait for updates... The first thing I wanted to do was contact the VA hospital to see how he was doing. As I transferred through many people (whom did not want to disclose anything) I was finally persistent enough to speak to someone who can provide me an update. The gentleman on the other end of the line intensely questioned me on who I was and why I wanted to know his status. After stating over and over that I was a coworker, his boss and also insisted that I consider him a friend too; the man finally apologized. He then abruptly advised me that Jim never made it past his procedure. I could not accept it so I asked him to repeat this, of which he did. The first thing I insisted was that they contact his sister Maggie and they kept telling me the number on file was wrong and that nobody could be notified, etc.. I was the first person to find out at work. I had 16 years of Jim’s memory flash before my eyes. I was shocked and saddened and kept thinking of how I was going to relay this news to others that cared for Jim. That day was very hard. What comforts me to this day is this dream etched in my memory. This will be the memory of Jim I will always have – walking in front of the sunlight, smiling and hugging me. I realize he may have been saying goodbye, but I also think Jim wanted me to share that he is at peace… The memory of Jim will shine brightly in many of us. ~ Michael Marques