For most, today is a jovial time of practical jokes on friends and co-workers.  For me, that has it’s place on every day but today.  April 1st, for me, has a completely different meaning.  It was five years ago today that I lost my good friend Tim in Iraq.  So, for me, today isn’t a day for jovial practical jokes (even though Tim would’ve wanted it to be.) Today, it’s a vivid reminder of what I subconsciously feel every day.

I can’t wallow in self-pity for too long though. It wouldn’t be fair to Tim’s memory. Instead, I can simply say a small prayer that Ryan will form the kind of brotherly bond with a friend that I did with Tim.  Looking at this picture of Ryan exploring a pirate ship playground, I’m reminded of all the adventures that Matt, Tim and I went on and all of the time we spent together.

The pain of Tim’s loss has been so great but the comfort of his memory has gotten me through some challenging times.  I can’t wait for me to share with Ryan the stories of the man who gave him his middle name.  Here’s to you Tim.