Happy Birthday to Two Great Men

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.