DEAR ABBY: I read one of your “pennies from heaven” columns more than a year ago. I thought the idea was quaint but didn’t pay it much mind because I’ve always felt that when someone’s life ends — that’s it. I never believed in an afterlife. Well, I do now.

Alan, my best friend of 12 years, recently took his own life. It was a devastating loss for me, one I am still dealing with. However, one thing has been a huge help — the pennies he leaves for me.

Alan used to give me any pennies and spare change he collected in his desk and pockets. He knew I was saving all the money I could get my hands on to buy something for my new kitty and it was his unobtrusive way of helping. After Alan’s death, I didn’t associate the “pennies from heaven” letters in your column with him ... until the day before his funeral.

It was the morning of the last workday of the week. I just couldn’t face going to work, knowing Alan’s funeral was the next day. I sat crying in my car for 10 minutes, feeling nothing but anguish as I watched people pass through the parking garage to the high-rise elevator. More than 20 people must have passed by as I sat crying in my car.

After the last person was gone, I dried my eyes and walked slowly toward the elevator.

As I pushed the button, I cast my eyes to the floor, feeling utterly hopeless and depressed. I saw a new penny staring face-up with this year’s date on it. Suddenly I felt as if I wasn’t alone anymore. I picked it up and called out Alan’s name, as if I expected him to answer. He didn’t, but I felt him “with me” and knew he was telling me I was going to be OK.

I have found several other pennies since then. Each felt like a sign from Alan, urging me to get on with my life. I framed the first penny with a photo of Alan and me. Whenever someone asks me what the penny means, I tell them Alan left it to me. And I smile.

KELLI

IN ALABAMA

DEAR KELLI: Alan left you more than a penny. He left you the knowledge of what it means to be a supportive friend. Lucky you.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Write Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

The article above was found on Google and was published originally on The Turo Daily News