A friend and colleague of mine from Disney & DreamWorks lost his battle to Leukemia yesterday afternoon. The whole animation industry is dark and sad today because of this great loss. Pres was not only an amazing animator, he was a great friend to anyone he met. He was always kind, generous and never judged anyone no matter what. He welcomed me into Disney Orlando when I was sent from the Burbank studio to help on Mulan, and helped me through my uncle’s death the day I met him. When I got to DreamWorks a couple years later, I felt like an outsider and it was Pres who reached out and made me feel at home.
He spent time rescuing animals and finding homes for them. He spent time mentoring people and we all loved him.
I was hoping that we would be sitting around years from now talking about the summer he was so sick and how he beat it. Unfortunately that is not the case and the world is a darker place because of this loss.
This morning I was watching Glee while working and they sang this song and not only did it make me cry like a child, it reminded me of Pres because I know he wouldn’t want us to be sad today, but happy, smiling and remembering him.
I believe more than ever that life is so short and it is so important to cherish every moment with the ones you love. I hope these lyrics remind you of someone that you have in your life.
I dedicate to you Pres and your journey to the other side.
Smile, though your heart is aching
Smile, even though it’s breaking
When there are clouds in the sky
You’ll get by…
If you smile
With your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You’ll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just…
Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That’s the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what’s the use of crying
You’ll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just…
Smile, though your heart is aching
Smile, even though it’s breaking
When there are clouds in the sky
You’ll get by…
If you smile
Through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You’ll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile…
That’s the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what’s the use of crying
You’ll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile
Steph Olivieri Bourbon ~ Writing Coach 