Merc columnist L.A. Chung writes in today’s edition:

Sometimes it takes an unexpected moment in our lives to cause us to stop and take stock. Slow down. Remember your family and friends, and what your community means . . . and your place in it.

The death of a beloved colleague, Rich Ramirez [pictured], did that for me. Rich always said, “Thank you.” And more.

Those few basics are universal and glue us together in this world. Rich remembered to practice their care and cultivation in abundance, with fierce loyalty and pride.