Honourable senators, it is with great sadness that I rise today after learning this morning of the sudden death of a dear colleague and friend, Jim Hillyer, a Conservative MP from Alberta.

Jim was a 41-year-old dedicated husband and dad with a bustling family life, was passionate about his work in politics. He had a connection with his constituents and such a respectful sense of collegiality on the Hill that we all appreciated.

Life is so unpredictable.

It can bring unforeseen happiness, or catch us off guard with the greatest tragedy.

Life is so short.

All too often, we don't know when we will have to bid farewell to someone we know. We are all taking the journey to the same destination, but we do not know the day or time of arrival. This must not prevent us from living, but it should make us realize that we are to savour every moment in order to enjoy the company of the people in our lives.

There is a saying that goes something like this: "Don't send me flowers when I'm dead. If you like me, send them while I'm alive."

Politics can get heated. We debate a lot, and sometimes we get so hotheaded that we let the sun go down on our anger. Life is too short for this.

I would like to quote an American soldier who said, "What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others and the world remains and is immortal." We will remember Jim as a man who gave a lot — to his family, his friends, his community and his country.

What we do for ourselves dies with us; what we do for others remains.

I was told that Jim was a man of faith. He overcame a serious illness and made a remarkable recovery. No one knows how much time he or she has left, and as Molière said, "We die only once, and for such a long time."

Dear colleagues, I suggest that you call your close friends and family members today to tell them how much you care about them.

Let us keep Jim's family and friends in our thoughts and prayers as they grieve, and let us offer them the help and support of Jim's friends on the Hill.