Albert Einstein once said, "The value of a man should be seen in what he gives and not in what he is able to receive." Marvin Goldberg was a man who gave much. He generously gave to his family, friends and community. He gave energy, integrity, commitment and inspiration to those families with whom he worked, and their lives are now better for what he gave. Marvin readily gave of his time, compassion, knowledge, kindness and, if he could offer nothing more than his beautiful smile and great wit, he gave that in abundance.

I had just started in this field as a representative for a therapeutic program when I first met Marvin eight years ago. We had arranged our first meeting to be at Au Bon Pain Café in Cambridge, MA. On my way to the meeting, I worried about finding my way, driving the perilous streets of Boston, securing a rarity in Boston: a parking space, getting there in time and meeting with Educational Consultants - that daunting group of professionals with whom I had very little experience. By the time I arrived, I had developed a decent level of anxiety.

Introductions were made and all seemed to be going along smoothly those first few minutes until we reached the cashier and I presented my credit card, only to discover that it was "cash only." I didn't have enough cash to cover our lunch and I stood there frozen for a few seconds wondering how I could get the floor to open up. Visions of standing in the unemployment line flashed through my mind. So, with no other recourse and full of mortification, I asked Marvin, this virtual stranger, if I could borrow lunch money. Without hesitation and with good humor, he paid for lunch and in such a manner that my anxiety and embarrassment instantly vanished. It was only an inkling at that time, but I had a feeling I had just met a very special person. How very special Marvin was came to light as our working relationship and friendship grew.

As I got to know Marvin, I found him to be bright, logical and systematic in his thinking. He was always willing to listen without judgment and to share his ideas and information when asked. Marvin was a living example of "live and let live." The man I remember took things in stride, accepting life on life's terms and found the positive in every situation. I don't recall ever hearing Marvin complain, but I do remember his never failing to acknowledge the good work people had done. Even during the many trials of his illness, he was not only cheerful in himself, but gave much cheerfulness to others. His sense of humor always seemed to lighten the heaviest load.

I believe reflected in everything Marvin did was the character of the life he lived. A man of integrity, who loved his wife Renee dearly, adored his children and grandchildren, and was steadfast in his faith. He was a man who knew his priorities and never waivered from his values. He was passionately interested in making the lives of others better. He did it with a big heart and with a gentle demeanor. Those of us who had the privilege to know him are assured in knowing he left this world a better place for having been in it.

Marvin was a genuinely warm and wonderful individual with a rare friendliness and charm of personality. The best I can say about Marvin - he was a mensch.

Thank you, Marvin, for all of your contributions to making this a better world one person at a time. I am fortunate to have been counted among your friends. You will be greatly missed.

About the Author:
Karen Eusebio is National Liaison for the Aspen Education Group 707-758-6443