Posts from — March 2008

Depending on the depth of our relationship as friend, family, colleague or random reader it may not be well known that I have MS — Multiple Sclerosis. This week is one of the few times each year I make an effort to talk about the disease, it’s effects, and the future. And me. The rest of the year it’s merely another thread that is woven in with countless others that makeup me, my life, and experiences.

Before the sun sets on the 17th it is my endeavor to share with you my personal story. I’ve yet to determine how I’m going to do that. I’ve considered writing, of course, and also the possibility of using video to tell my story. In retrospect, video is something that will have to wait for later — not enough time.

My question to you today is… Won’t you join me? Join me in becoming aware of Multiple Sclerosis. Aware of its effects on countless people across the country and throughout the world. Aware of the reality that you already know someone that has MS but don’t realize it.  Please join me today. If nothing more, take just a few moments to go to the website and learn a little more about MS.

And no, this isn’t the disease that Jerry (Lewis) does a telethon for each year. I’ve been asked that question countless times.

Who would have thought “that guy from ESPN SportsCenter” was such an impassioned broadcast editorialist? This isn’t the first of his commentaries that have caught my attention but I felt it important that this be shared.

Today, March 8th, I celebrate the birthday of two great men. Two men that have had an incredible influence and impact on my life. One has been part of my life since I was born. Another has been a part of my life for less but whose impact has been immeasurable. As the day has passed I have hoped to find myself capable of writing something inspiring and thoughtful. As the sun has set I have found myself short of words. Regardless, here goes.

My grandfather is an amazing man who has lived through some of the most incredible moments of the last century. There are so many memories that he is a part of that I carry with me each day. He taught me to fish. He shared with me the love of the outdoors. He helped me understand the value of a hard days work. So many of the values I hold so dear are a product of his influence.

My best friend, Rodney, has seen me through some of the most difficult times of my life. When I was faced with a life altering disease he opened his home and his heart to me. He offered shelter and comfort at a time when I was confused, uncertain, and enveloped in fear. The past few years he has journeyed with me as I have seen so many dreams come true. Those dreams would not have reached fruition had it not been through his own persistence and sacrifice. He is a man who has truly saved my life.

It is interesting how I see so much of each of them in the other. It is as if they are cut from the same cloth. It must be that German heritage. They even have virtually the same amount of hair on their heads regardless of the distance between their ages. But outward appearances are not where the most sincere similarities can be realized. It is deep, within their hearts that the true parallels are observed.

I love each of these men. It is my hope and my prayer that each of their dreams come true and that they continue to be a part of my life for countless years.

It is my sincere hope that each and every one of you will go to the polls and caucus as the case may be. If you’ve paid any attention to my blog, you are well aware of my choice for the Democratic nominee. While I have refrained from specifically lobbying any of you to one candidate I do hope you will consider the words of President Bill Clinton when you make your decision today.