Faith, Family, Inspiration

"A Hero is no braver than an Ordinary Man, but he is brave five minutes longer." Ralph Waldo Emerson

I was able to attend the funeral of a childhood neighbor today. I have been following his story on his blog since he was diagnosed with cancer over a year ago. You can read his story if you go to teamryanhess.blogspot.com. His wife had a wonderful way of documenting their miraculous journey this past year. It has been both faith promoting and inspiring to see them maintain such a positive attitude instead of blaming and hating everything because this was happening to their little family. At the funeral, I was so impressed at how much of an example that he had been to his family, friends, community, and people that he didn't even know. His life was cut so short, yet he left a miraculous impact on so many people.

His home town did a great article on him read here: Green Valley News & Sun - Sahuarita Sun > Sahuarita Sun > Editors Blog > Ryan Hess made us a better community

On his program was another quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson "What lies behind us and what lies in front of us pales in comparison to what lies within us." Ryan truly emanated that quality.

As I have had time to reflect on some of the things that were said, and as I left the funeral, I was inspired. It made me realize how precious time is and how short in comparison life is to all of us. I hope that my life can be reflected as positive as his was portrayed.

I have recommitted to be a better person to my family, friends, colleagues, strangers, and those who may not know me. Thank you Ryan for being such an inspiration to so many people.