To Mr. Hampton,

I can't describe how much you will be missed. 

 

Mr. Hampton was known to many of us as "the junk man." He could be seen throughout the day collecting people's discarded items, which he would consider treasure. This perceived trash to many of us, has now created a beautiful masterpiece in which Mr. James Hampton's legacy will remain. 

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Thank you for being my advocate. Thank you for taking your time to teach me and explain the importance of having a better perspective on life. Just as we have collected a myriad of shiny materials for our project, I have saved each piece of advice you have gifted to me. I hope I am a man like you when I am older, one who is always willing to care for others and share beauty with this world despite the critics. 

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Mr. Hampton, you once thanked me for "saving you twice" (138). I think it is the other way around, you taught me a whole new meaning to life. You gave me a another chance to experience the surrounding beauty in life's mundane. You were the most dedicated, confident man, who had a vision and a desire to see completion. I now understand the importance of the number seven. Seven important things. Completion. Perfection. 

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You now sit on a perfect throne above. Selfishly, I want you to be here still. I can imagine us walking to the museum together with our coffee, opening the doors to a crowd of people staring at the masterpiece we created. People enjoy the finished product, but I know we enjoyed the journey. 

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You were a light, James Hampton. You are a light. 

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Rest in peace dear friend. 

 

With love,

Arthur

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