Well, somehow I've found myself here again. 4 years later, Mr. D, and people still remember your legacy. It's quite evident Tia loved you very much while you were here... Couldn't help but tear up at all those tributes she left for you, as well as many of the other's.
What can I even say? You've made an enormous impact in my life, an unforgettable imprint in my mind of your leadership. Always humble, and fully competent. You understood that although attitude isn't everything, it's most important; you portrayed that very well in your everyday life. You weren't burdened by us young'uns (a bit younger at the time, anyways) desiring to talk to you, joke with you, work with you, ask you questions, etc. Your fellowship was always a treasure.
You were continually willing to lend a hand, even when it may have been quite inconvenient. I can't forget the story Master T. told about you--upon receiving his phone call requesting help with his car problem in the early morning of winter--immediately heading out the door to go help.
You taught me many truths about life that I still hold to today:
"Practice doesn't make perfect... Perfect practice makes perfect."
"Not being able to become completely perfect just means you can always get better."
"Champions are always ready for one more [ready for that extra push, just in case]."
When I think of all your kindness, your spirit, and your love for life and people, I always remind myself it's just the tiniest fraction of the love of Jesus... And that's what your experiencing right now... The presence of a perfect, loving, righteous, joy-filled, awesome God.
Sometimes I'll tear up when I think of you and I'll ask God about why you had to go so early. Maybe that was His way of passing your baton onto the rest of us. I don't know. There's a lot about death that I don't understand. One thing I know is this: Your legacy will carry on.
I sure do miss you. A part of me wants to kick you in the rear whenever I see you again for leaving us all so soon, but I'll probably just end up giving you a big hug.
Thank you, Lord, that this man has blessed my life, as well as so many others. May we continue to carry his torch.
Rock on, Mr. D. Rock on forever.