After coming to terms with the person's passing, we look into our memories and try to remember what made that person so special to us. Today is one of those days for me.
I guess I should preface this tribute with some explanation first for those who may not know me that well. I'm a martial artist, a follower of budo (warrior way) and love everything about the Okinawan and Japanese arts. I've been blessed with instruction from some of the world's greatest and best karate-ka and budo-ka out there. The one man who stands out from all the rest is Jim Davenport.
There will be much written and said about his martial accomplishments, for there are many. Many will talk about his amazing martial skill and knowledge, as they should. I could write for quite some time about the knowledge he shared with me, but currently that's not where my mind is.
Jim was so much more than a budo-ka. He was a father to two great men, a grandfather, and to me......a good friend. He epitomized what so many karate-ka talk about but never succeed in reaching: being a gentleman warrior.
He and I spoke often, and I can't think of one conversation when his jolly laugh didn't make me smile. His sense of humor and outlook on life was contagious and inspiring. I recall watching him move and thinking, "that fat dude is the fastest I've ever seen." I remember telling him that I had thought that the first time we had met and he nearly burst with laughter. He went on to tell me about a conversation he had had with another individual who once told him that he was very impressive for someone that heavy. Jim responded, "Heavy? Nah, just fat." I sit here laughing as I write this even though my heart is heavy with his loss.
I scrolled through my phone contacts this morning to let a friend know that Jim had passed away. As I scrolled my phone stopped on Jim's name and number. I hung my head in utter sadness.
Anyone who was blessed to have known Jim understood what kind of man he was. His legacy lives on, but his spirit will be greatly missed.
