Jan did so much for so many

There is no one single word that can describe Jan sufficiently. He has been one of the most amazing and inspiring persons that I have ever met in my life.

His interest in people and their stories, his capacity of bringing people together and what is even more important bringing up the best in people was fascinating.

Jan listened, Jan respected, Jan motivated, Jan inspired, Jan helped, Jan advised, Jan connected, Jan did so much for so many.

His passion for work and life was unlimited. His warm personality and sense of humour were absolutely extraordinary.

I could always ask Jan for advice and he never let me down. He was like the best friend you can imagine. He was patient, pragmatic, ready to hold a mirror up to you. I will never forget how happy he looked when I showed him my TV award. As if it was him who had won it. I learned so much from Jan. He enriched my life.

I am grateful that I managed to thank Jan for everything on time and I hoped the whole time for a miracle for this miraculous person.

I was at the seaside on Thursday evening when I heard that Jan has passed away.  It felt like W.H. Auden’s poem Stop All the Clocks  saying ‘’ pack up the moon and dismantle the sun’’

And then I heard the waves and I recalled one of our conversations.

Jan, in your life you did so much good for so many, you caused so many good waves in the lives of so many people, and this will stay for always. It is miraculous.

Thank you my dear friend.

Beata

Mr Jan Mans advised our CEE center for years and we will never forget his extraordinary support.