Long time ago, 1979 to be exact, Don Odle retires as Taylor golf and basketball coach. Sam Sample takes over. He doesn’t know much about golf, just that he loves it. I played for both. Was young and not very coachable.
Fast forward to 2024. I’ve not kept in touch. Lost any contact. Get a call from a Taylor dude fund raising. He tells me Sam is not well but still in Upland, Indiana. Gives me Sam’s phone number and sends me his book titled Fourth Quarter.
I read it. Call him. He doesn’t answer. Left a voicemail. His voice sounded frail and slowed. My heart stirred as the years revealed a distance much shorter than the three hour drive separating our souls. I told Sam it’s a great day to be alive. This was his signature greeting. Felt right. Felt true. It. Is. A. Great. Day. To. Be. Alive.
Thanks, Sam, for keeping it simple. I’m a slow learner. Will you forgive me for being so poor at keeping in touch? God bless you.
Live hard. Love harder…
BUILT TO LEAD 
Brother Chet,
Damn. Yet another message from you sent directly to my heart. As soon as I hit send on this note, I am going to write a message to one of my dearest friends who I have not spoken to in far too long. Thank you for the RE MIND (er)…I love you so…and a hug and hello to Sam.
Together WE Transform – always, ALWAYS – TOGETHER.
Jim
Matthew 5:23-24
PS One thousand spears of hope, faith and love headed your way, MM.
Done so.