My best friend and his wife are on their15th day now. He is using Chantix and she is going cold turkey and their both still alive!
He uses a plastic roller from a small computer printer to chew on. Although I'm not sure if it's a good idea to chew plastic, maybe a dowel. I suggested they try using a worrystone to keep the hands busy, worth a try!
What a touchingly beautiful tribute to your brother!!!
Ahh, but you are only separated by what the eye sees, or doesn't see. You are still together(he still lives) in your heart and in your mind (memories of him & you/times together). I'm sure he would want you to find peace and comfort and not anguish about what he went through.
Writing things down is a great way to ground emotion.
The easy(convenient) paths usually go nowhere. Find a path with heart and follow & stick to that. As soon as you realise that you've swayed from your path, head back for it and continue on, until you realise again that your footsteps have strayed, then head back...etc.
RE: Fires....WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO NOW #3
Ticket To Ride - The Beatles