usual Saturdays

[dima380]

For a year and a half Leif and me were spending a lot of time together on Saturdays due to teaching at the same Baiwen campus. We used to have lunch at the small Xinjiang restaurant across the street. A couple of times Leif was with Moon and her Mom. We shared stories of our lives finding a lot in common, as my parents are doctors too. He encouraged me to use Taobao for shopping, which is now actually a huge part of my business. We even had time for a game like Uno. He was a great company. I am really missing him. His fellow teacher Dmitri.

[Dana]

I agree with Dima. ....... & I'll add .... Leif's impact on all of our foreign teacher community here in Beijing went a long way. Leif & I talked about motorcycles many times. ( I also have a yamaha xs 1100 in america) ... He knew & understood the dangers of driving one. He also knew the added danger of riding in China where breaking the traffic laws is a given. We joked about it because what else can you do ? I'm still in SHOCK as are the other teachers I work with here in Beijing. I know it's easy to say the good things about people under these circumstances and over look the bad BUT ... I just never saw the bad in LEIF. He was a Happy, smiling,understanding & very deep young man. (let's not overlook his skills in speaking Chinese)
Recently, I had some difficult situations with my teaching duties and he totally backed me up. He really understood what it's like to work in China and the struggles we as foreign teachers face. I was so glad to have him in my corner. He was also someone whom I could talk to about Life in America. (I'm from Rhode Island,USA) ... It's so difficult making friends in a foreign country because 99% stay a year or 2 and you never see them again. (this is my 13th year here) Losing Leif was like losing a brother. I feel so sad for MOON & his family to be suddenly faced with such a horrific outcome. My heart goes out to you and my prayers are with you. Please know this ..... His impact in bridging the cultures and helping regular people find their dreams was massive. although he will always be missed ... he will never be forgotten ! We all love you .Leif !

Mr. Dana Southern

[beckysbit]

Thank you for sharing stories about my cousin that I have not seen in many years .... reinforcing what an incredible blessing his life was to so many. I am praying for all of you and am so glad Leif had such great friends, Becky Ramsey