I can remember the sadness that filled me when I learned that he had died so young. I can remember the heaviness in my heart as I drove to his wake. That heaviness, however, lifted some and a smile came to my face when I saw the line waiting to get into the funeral home. It stretched down the street for as far as I could see. I can remember smiling too when I found out that his funeral had to be held at a local football field to hold all the lives he touched with his kindness and love. That field was later renamed after him. What a fitting tribute to a life that touched so many in such a short time.

The great poet Washington Irving wrote, 'A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles'. That was my friend's heart. That was my friend's life. That is why I ask God everyday to fill me with love, joy, and kindness so that I can share them with the world. If I only touch half the souls my friend did then I will consider my life well lived. May all of us live lives of such love and kindness. May all of us touch countless souls with our joy, laughter, light, and oneness with God.