Eugene Lawrence "Eckie Bud" Cooley's life was a short one. He packed a lot of living in the thirty-six years he was here. Uncle Bud died almost ten years before I made my grand entrance into this family. I listened intently to each story someone told about him. Grandma shared stories of their childhood and adult lives together, which gave me a sense of knowing him. Thanks to her, I had the chance to "meet" him. I'll explain.
Grandma died on March 1, 2002. It was one of the most difficult times of my life. I always had her with me and suddenly she was gone. When all official business was resolved, I wanted to take a trip to help ease my grieving mind. Los Angeles was a place I liked to go to kick back and relax. A couple of weeks later, I was in L.A. to relax, relate and release. Prior to the life altering events, Cousin Unruley had planned a weekend getaway to Palm Springs. She invited me to go along, but I chose to stay at her house. From the moment she left the driveway and returned two days later, she called several times to check on me. I'll never forget her love and support at one of the most difficult times of my life. I appreciate all that she told me and what Uncle Bud said as well.
My first night in her house was a quiet one. My only companion for the entire weekend would be Unruley's dog, Bubba. I strongly feel Bubba knew I was sad. Each move I made was closely shadowed by Bubba. When it was time to lay it down, Bubba slept on the floor next to my bed. I had one of the most vivid dreams occur that night. I'm not sure of the location, but I knew I was in a place that felt familiar to me. A man approached me and asked how I was doing. I told him I was just okay, that is was hard for me since my grandmother died a few weeks ago. It was at that moment that this man became very clear to me, it was my UNCLE BUD! I told him, "I know who you are and I'm so glad to see you!" He told me not to worry and that all would be fine. My grandmother wasn't available at the time and he was there in her place. I was so excited and happy to see him. We talked a little while longer and he told me he had to leave. I asked him, "Can we exchange numbers? I'd like to give you a call sometime." He gave me this look that said it all. I told him, "I guess that's not possible." Uncle Bud said, "I have to go, but you're gonna be okay. Your grandmother is fine. Don't worry about her." He was going away - fading actually. I asked, "When will we talk again?" He told me he was always around and we would see each other again. He was gone as quickly as he appeared. I opened my eyes and noticed Bubba was sitting up. He was looking at the door as though he was watching someone walking away. It may have been a dream, but it felt very real to me and Bubba.
