A Tribute to Malik Ahmed Kofi Euzebe

For years I’ve heard people say, “Only the good die young.” Never truly understood that old saying until now. Recently I attended the Life Celebration ceremony for my cousin,  Malik Euzebe who died as a result of a swimming accident on July 9^th, (just a month short of his 22nd birthday). He was only 21. While I had the pleasure of meeting him only once in person (we lived in different states), we were Facebook friends. Can’t remember whether he befriended me or me him, but I do know I got a kick out of viewing his posts. At times he would post videos of himself doing some skateboard stunt. He looked very skilled as he glided effortlessly through the air, defying gravity like he belonged there. There was no doubt in my mind that skateboarding was his passion.

His funeral was held at the Mountcastle Turch Funeral Home in Dale City, Virginia on July 20^th. I made every effort to attend because his mother is dear to me and besides that, this is family. I really wanted to be there to give physical support to both her and her husband. Not surprising, the event was well attended with easily more than a 100 people in attendance. As an avid skateboarder, Malik was well known in the skateboarding community. Many of his “homies” as he affectionately likes to call them, were in attendance. As I sat quietly listening to those who chose to give a vocal tribute to Malik, it was easy to tell how loved and revered this young man was. One after one each person echoed what a phenomenon man Malik was. 

From rescuing stray dogs to convincing his parents to give financial support or take in others who had no place to go, the picture of Malik’s life began to take shape right before my eyes. From educators, to classmates, to other family members, the sediments were the same, he was an all-around great person. He was referred to as a “big brother”, a “little brother”, “mentor”, “best friend”, and an “inspiration” by many. 

He was said to be funny, friendly, giving, selfless, engaging, compassionate, and caring. Basically, he was the kind of person you wanted to keep in your life because he had love and compassion for all. It did not matter if he knew you for a life time or just met you five minutes ago, or if you were a friend, a family member, or a stranger - he embraced you just the same. His love was genuine and was only out done by the concern he displayed.  Nothing seemed to bring this young man down. Even when faced with disappointments or conflict, he found a way to shake it off and move on without missing a beat. From all accounts, he was soft spoken, mild mannered, positive, upbeat, artistic, and very creative. To the latter he used the letters U Z B to phonetically spell out his last name on his Facebook account. I would have never thought of that. Overall, he was a well-rounded person who would easily flash his trademark warm smile to anyone he encountered in a heartbeat.

Malik had only just moved out of his parents’ house a mere 2 months ago. Not because he needed to but because he was trying to help some friends out.  That in and of itself spoke volume to me of just how far he would go to ensure others had what they needed. Even in death, his desire to help others was manifested in his decision to be an organ donor. So selfless, so caring. There is no doubt in my mind that his death left a void in many lives, one that won’t quickly, if ever, be filled. But on the flip side, a part of him lives on in the body of the donor recipients. While I don’t know for sure where our love ones go when they leave us, I pray it’s to a better place. Where ever that road took Malik I feel that he is smiling down on us feeling very satisfied that he fulfilled his assignment here on this earth, short a time it may have been. 

There is a GoFundMe account set up to help defray funeral cost.  

Such an some guy could only come from awesome parents. Malik embodied all the nurturing/caring characteristics of his mother Desiree and the strong supportive characteristics of his dad Anthony. Together those qualities made him a great human-being that left a lasting impression on anyone who was lucky enough to have encountered him. What a life he lived and a legacy he left behind. His parents should be very proud of the job they did raising such an awesome human-being. May you be so lucky to encounter such an awesome human-being in your lifetime?  I’m Just Saying. I got issues – what about you? 

If you would like to contribute to his GoFundMe account, please click the GoFundMe link. Thank you in advance for your donation. Much love and abundant blessings.)i(

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