Been awhile, brother. Came back with some sadness in my heart over one of our friends. I used this moment to go back and re-read this original post, more than just to come here and let you know you are remembered but also to look back at part of why you are remembered so fondly, so loved by those you left behind.
I can relate to the OP, in that I am somehow an 'old person magnet'. Doesn't matter the setting, they always find me, sit next to me and start conversation. It may be about anything, sometimes they just need to talk. Maybe, even when I don't know it, sometimes I just need to listen to someone.
This bit has struck a cord within me. I don't know if my belief is rooted in this quote from so long ago, but a similar mantra has become ingrained in my approach to the world. Nobody is ever alone, unless they choose to be. Even if you don't have the strength or courage to ask for help, just letting them in might be enough to make the difference.
I've always kept things within, and dodged confronting such things by offering to be there for others. I know there are people who are there for me, truly 'there' for me. And maybe someday I'll open up more and lean on them. I'm not ready yet. But I'm glad I've let people in before, it can make a lifetime of difference. Like letting this scrawny kid into my heart so long ago, and your impact ripples long after you are gone.