i hurt, my mentor and friend has gone to heaven. my feelings are unclear. i hurt for my father's sake and that of my cousins. i am hearing the footfall of death and mortality. i hurt for the memory of the day of realizing the humanity and mortality of a great man at home and on the national stage. i remember the swagger, the smile, the lessons on life and faith which minister to me to this day. i remember the hymns and riding in the chrysler imperial at 100+ miles per hour and wanting to go even faster. i remember the pond on the farm and feeling so great knowing my dad and uncle could drive anything and accomplish anything...

were it not for Jesus and His Love, i would give up totally...