My father told me he started feeling old when he began recognizing faces in the obituary column of the local paper. I understood that pearl of wisdom a little better yesterday when I heard the news of author A.J Hayes' passing. I knew A.J. We were not exactly intimate friends, but we've been around the same circles for years and collaborated on a couple projects together. He was a good man and I want everybody to understand that.
A.J and I never had an heartfelt conversation, but the way he carried himself spoke volumes about his character. Some of you might remember him taking part to discussions on Dead End Follies, for he was truly passionate about literature and cinema. At least as passionate as I am. A.J was also a regular commenter on my published short stories. If you browse my publications section, you will find a kind word or a valuable piece of feedback by A.J on several of my online shorts. I was not the only one, A.J was one of the few who really read everyone's stories because he loved to do it and offered comments because he understood a little kindness goes a long way.
I feel bad I didn't get to know A.J better, because he took more interest in me that I've taken in him. I've became that guy who understands the value of someone too late. I'm going to miss A.J. I'm sure many young authors have known him the way I did : he was a kind-hearted wanderer, a passionate wordsmith and a thinker who wasn't afraid to confront dead ideas and create new objects out of their wreckage. I invite you to take a moment to read my favourite A.J Hayes short story today. It'll take only a few minutes.
So long, A.J. Thank you for the wisdom and the support.