This Crazy Thing We Call Life!

Today I said goodbye to a very good friend. Tears ran down my face, but my heart was filled with peace, because while I will miss him more than I can explain, I know without a doubt that he is happy. Hundreds of people showed up to pay their respects and it was incredible to see a fraction of the number of people who's lives Erik touched. I had the opportunity last night at the viewing to talk for a few moments with Erik's grandmother. I was a bit emotional and she called me over, held my hand, and asked me what my name was and how I knew Erik. When someone should have been comforting her, she reached out to comfort me. When I had answered her questions she looked me straight in the eye and said "He was an incredible boy and he is happy now. We've had some experiences this week and we know that he is close." I will forever be grateful for not only Erik, but his entire family as well. I have seen incredibly examples of strength and Christ-like love from ev

I've been trying for a week to get these words out. So many thoughts and emotions have ran through my mind and heart over the last several days--so  many things that could be said. The loss of a dear friend is always hard, but when it is someone like Erik it is unfathomable. He made the world such a better place, simply by being in it. He made MY world a better place, simply by being in it. And while I can only imagine how his sweet family must feel, I have watched my sweet family here at Utah State feel that heartache along side them. How appropriate was it that February 10 was filled with storm clouds and rainy skies, as Logan mourned the loss of one of its own. I realized very quickly, after meeting Erik, that I had a lot more to learn from him, than he did from me. He taught me how laugh instead of cry, how to live more fully than I ever thought possible, how to learn from every trial you are given, and how to love others from every depth of your heart and soul.