I wrote recently (along with the late Andy Rooney) that Thanksgiving was my favorite holiday.

This year, I gave thanks for the life of my friend, Dr. Brian Rines, who died Nov. 25, a person who had a great influence in my life.

We met at a Halloween party in 1999. He was duded up as a pirate and introduced himself as “the mayor.” I wore a white suit, and clutching a bucket of fried chicken, introduced myself as “the colonel.” It was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Brian wasn’t a “doctor” doctor. He was a “Ph.D.” doctor.

No doctor, however, could have made you feel as worthy or better about yourself. As a psychiatrist, perhaps that was his job. But as a friend, it was his unique gift. And no question, his great pleasure.

If you had an idea that needed support, you had no better ally than Brian Rines. Our book, “Gardiner Reflections,” for example. Nobody thought it could be done. But skeptics became disciples overnight under Brian’s gentle but persuasive leadership.

If you knew Brian Rines, he was most likely your friend, too. As a politician, he probably had adversaries, but this man had no enemies.

I learned much from him, but not enough. He was a far better person than I can ever hope to become.

Before we launch into the seasonal greeting debate, I am reminded of the words he used to conclude his email: “Be kind to yourself — Brian.”

Indeed.

Buddy Doyle

Gardiner