A short tribute to Brian

In all the years I've had this blog, I'm not sure I've ever shared this part of my story before...

I'm sure that, for most people, they have a date that is significant in their life. Probably more than one.  An anniversary. The start of a new job. Losing a loved one. A "gotcha" day for an adopted child or pet. A big move. I have several. One of them is today, July 25th. 

July 25, 2005. I and many other 15 and 16-year olds got word that no teenager should ever receive: that their friend was killed in a car accident. Brian was such a ray of light and joy in our small high school. He could make anyone laugh. He genuinely loved life and the people in it. 

Afterwards, for a while, I was angry at God. Why would He take our friend away? And although it's one of those questions that I'll never know the answer to on this side of heaven, today, I remember him from the life he lived in a short amount of time. That moment, maybe for me, was part of the start of my faith journey pivoting, towards the arms of a loving God who can always take our hard questions, our anger, our doubts, our fears. 

For a long time, I wondered if I was able to question God. To be upset with Him. And I can tell you....Not only can you, but He will still love you all the same. 

I promise. 💟