Receiving this news about a person who shaped your current life and your future going forwards. It's a horrible feeling. When the war felt imminent in Russia, I was indecisive. Although I wasn't in ASM for a long time, I've kept in touch with people like Aiya and Red after I left, because they're awesome. Red always told me that he'll help if I've ever needed some sort of advice or just a shoulder to cry on. I spent the entire night of February 26th talking with him, and he encouraged me to go big.
The next day, I took the immediate flight to Incheon, and applied for the examinations to join the Seoul National University. 6 hours after my flight took off, martial law was instated in Russia, and war begun. A week later, I passed my exams, and I became a student of the Seoul National, one of the most prestigious and most highly regarded universities in the world. I was quick to thank Red for this, but I never thought that this will really change my life beside from switching living places.
What followed was a war that still rages on, opportunities I've never encountered at home, many more decisions I needed Red's advice on. Looking back, not only has Red helped me in finding a better study option, but he also saved my life. I was due for military enlistment back then, and I wasn't recruited yet because of an injury I've sustained a week before. Had Red not galvanized in me taking these steps, maybe I wouldn't be here, mourning his passing beside all of you. Maybe I would be shot dead in Ukraine, because I never made the decision.
I owe my life to him, but I couldn't do or say anything more than a "thank you" for all his burdens. Hell, I didn't even think about sending him a few dollars for beer.
Thank you Red, once again, for saving my life. For helping me to dream big, and to dare to do so. His last wish shows how big of a person he was, and we will all dearly miss him. Hug your loved ones, just give them a phone call. Trust me, you will have less regrets when they go away.