Gerard came into my life by surprise, and by chance. We were gathering a group of editors to present the Spanish section, and when he came we had already shut down the process because too many people had attended the call.
However, something told me that he was worth it, so I decided to let him in, it was one of the best decisions in the history of ElEstado.Net! And also in the last years of my life.
Not only did he stand out quickly like a born leader, so his promotion to section director occurred in weeks, because he was responsible, honest and hardworking, like only a colleague can do, in the most political meaning of the word.
He wrote quickly and well, he had self-criticism, he instantly understood the new guidelines and he had a journalist’s vision, a reference to hid texts. His initiative provided the newspaper with a new level of quality and credibility.
He was going to be one of the underpinnings of alternative journalism to come.
On the personal level, I met a charming, kind, fighting person, with a passion that moves the world. I had the opportunity of having various long conversations with him, in which we strengthen ties until we considered each other friends.
What hurts me the most is that someone that had a desire of living, had a hunger for doing big things, and who counted on his intelligence and will to carry them out, has gone. I didn’t doubt his huge potential.
I am torn apart by the news. With an urge to dump my rage against the unjust logic which seems to lose its essence when it takes young lives with so much to do and say.
I have lost a good friend. But Gerard is never going to leave because I have learnt so much with him. I will always have him with me in every manner. I will never forget his example. His mark will stay indelible in the hearts of the people of ElEstado.Net.
I don’t want to bid you farewell brother, because I can’t and I don’t want to!
So let me tell you that we will see each other soon.
So long Gerard. I loved you and I still love you so much.
This article was translated by Brad Alan Arequipa Abril.
