I’m a bit depressed, truth be told. Last night, my Krit flew the coop. Tonight, my Mom flew back home. Two nights ago, my son celebrated his graduation on our back lawn – soon, he too will be leaving. I can’t control any of my closest relationships. I love control too…
Tomorrow, however, regardless how I’m feeling, I’m leaving myself. 5:45 am I’m heading to Utica, Ohio to ride a few hills with some friends. They don’t know why, however. They think I planned this ride to prepare for our trip to France. They are wrong. Tomorrow, I’m riding to remember. You see, tomorrow marks the five year anniversary of one of my greatest losses. Five years ago, on May 21, 2009, while laughing with me on the phone about our fast approaching first trip to France to ride the Alps, my builder and best buddy Larry was suddenly called home. I’m a bit depressed simply writing about the loss of such a mountain of a man. Larry made me better. Larry made me want to be better still. Larry was the brother I never had growing up.
Tomorrow, on the fifth anniversary of his leaving, I’m gonna ride with him and feel the peace found in his draft. I’m happy just imagining tomorrow even though I’m hurting. Happy and hurting, feeling life – I guess this is as good as it gets…
BUILT TO LEAD 
You made my tears flow Chet. I had been thinking of Larry recently as well. The amazing thing is I can still hear him in my head as I recall something he said to me. I hear his voice…not my own head voice. He has always been a builder…long before I knew what that meant. In God’s infinite grace and kindness to some of us, He has allowed Larry’s words and generous encouragement to continue to build. That makes me happy! Have a great ride!.~ Joan.
Thanks, Joan. I hear Larry’s voice and it’s always booming, bold, and yet at the same time so loving. I hear him in your comments. Thank you and God bless you. You are very kind to comment and remember our friend and brother…
Thank you, brother, for your faithfulness, kindness and strength. Thank you for being on the phone with him when he went home. He was not alone for a moment. I am forever thankful for that gift. We celebrate his life, his legacy and his love for us all as we remember. It is an indescribable comfort to know how supremely happy he is with his precious Lord. And you know he’s already got a bunch of white roads ready for you for some amazing rides. I’ll bet the Alps is just a little warm up this side of heaven :).
Thanks, Kitty. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you remember and celebrate Larry’s life and legacy. Great seeing you at Tay’s celebration on Sunday. Last night a bug got in my system and gave me the worst sore throat I’ve had in years. The boys had to go on Larry’s ride without me as I’m stuck in bed. I guess, I too am with them in spirit. Blessings to you and yours…