Man. Ryan was a really creative guy. I first ran into him right here talking about some of his (many) campaign ideas in like 2000 or 2001. We were never really friends- I guess about the same as any message board relationship is. I read his posts more than I replied to him, but I always thought he was really cool. It seems like he was always putting together something new, and he never limited himself to any one system. I didn't know he was sick, and I had dropped off of the Enworld boards for several months long periods before.
So when I heard about all of this from Kronosoam, I went back and read his journal, from before he knew he was sick to the end. I read the whole thing, every day. At one point he posted a listing of his RPG collection and it was massive. I had most of the same stuff, but still it was cool to go through and look at all his collection.
I'm conflicted because it's clear from reading his journal that he didn't take it easy enough after he was sick. And I think "maybe if he had taken care of himself better and slowed down a bit.. he'd still be here..". But then I think- maybe not, and I would have definitely wanted for him to enjoy his time here on the mortal plane with us. I guess I have nothing to say other than I wish he were still here, and he was a really creative cat with a lot of ideas.
Ryan always talked about being an Angel. It was part of his personal mythology. But now, it's all true.
Anyhow, roll a d20 for me, angelsboi. You were the best. Wish I had known you better.
- Peter
