What can I say about my friend Melski, that hasn’t already been said, or that isn’t too clichéd? Well, our friendship was relaxed and fun but only now, on reflection, do I recognise that we were never equal. Mel was not only rare, unique, and beautiful but she had an elusive capacity to simply see things that I would invariably miss. I would see a group of students, she would know individuals. I would see everyone smile, she would notice sad eyes. I could make her laugh, but she, in her inimitable way, would make me think. In this, she was my greatest teacher. No one has taught me more. I’m sure others will refer to how she cared passionately about inequality, but only now, looking back, do I recognise that such passion was never founded on base emotions or rational argument. Its true provenance was the ineffable depth and beauty of her ability to love. It seems to me that love drove much of Mel’s life. It was certainly the foundation of our friendship. I guess I’ll catch up with you sooner or later Melski. In the meantime, rest easy Comrade.