On June13 the world became a little smaller and lost some heart.  Ralph Quincy resided in my heart as one of those special people you can count on one hand you meet in life.  I first met Ralph across a tennis net.  He was sporting his white sweatband and holding out his hand to shake mine.  I instantly liked his warm personality and wide smile.  Ralph always stopped a moment to greet me and others as he made his way through his day and was never too busy for a quick hug.  He invited me to dine at his table and the food was excellent because Nancy was the cook and the drinks flowed so readily I am surprised I remember the evening at all.  What I do remember is laughing.  When I had some struggles with my own life, he showed up.  And I marveled at the sensitivity and the effort to take the time to tell me that he knew I could survive even this.  When I heard that Ralph was ill it broke my heart and so the notice of his passing brings tears.  I am grateful, so grateful to have known him which is to say benefited from him being in my life.  Thank you Ralph.