When I reflect on you a smile comes to my face. Adventure, delight, unknowing, courage, mystery, child-like faith, passion and hope are words that come to mind when I think of our journey together. And so so many stories that encompass each of one these themes.
But beside retelling any one of these epic tales, I want to take this moment to write and reflect on you.
You are quite the enigma. How does one man who seemingly has a pretty put together life become a man that is such in tune with heartache and brokeness? How does a man of such masculinity and strength become such a man of kindness and humility? You surprise me Brandon on a constant basis.
My own desire to be met in places of vulnerability and depth, not absolutes but the dark places, the places of unknown where mystery and God dance, yes those places are where you play with alongside of me. Those are the places where I can feel most alone and when I look up and see your face, your willingness to be messy, futile with me, to laugh and cry, to pray and curse to be willing to suffer alongside. That is my surprise. When I think I can somehow stereotype you, you show up, again and again and again. I don't remember all the sermons or all the verses we use to memorize, it is your presence that my memory holds so close.
Your love, kindness, humility, strength and consistency has been God's face to me over the years. Your relationship to me despite our physical distance now continues to be water. I thank you for your fervor. Your zealous love for me. It reminds me to love myself well, and leads me to the throne of God.
You are a good man Brandon. I am a better man because I know you.
I look forward to our continued journey together and know that you being with me during this next step into fatherhood means great things to me and my family. Thank you.
Happy birthday my dear friend. I miss you and know we will be together again soon. May you dance, play, drink, and celebrate your life well today!
Love you.
Andrew
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