So many of us feel the constraint of our life circumstance. It’s easy to do so considering how difficult change can be. I can recount numerous periods of time in my own life where I felt challenged by circumstance. Perhaps one of the more significant periods of change relates to my childhood and the process of breaking free from a culture that had a definite impact on how I viewed my life goals. Growing up in this community, I would have never envisioned the opportunity to complete my education, start a business and have a family of my own. I know my life would be very different today had I not been hopeful about making change happen. I will also say that my circumstances helped me appreciate the change that followed. It’s sad to say this but I probably would have never understood the full meaning and value of “freedom” without living the first half of my life without it.

The most unexpected and painful change in our family occurred 6 weeks ago. A very special and tender 28 year old son was found dead, his car and body burned beyond recognition. One of the most haunting fears I have now is that I might forget how his always warm and tender voice sounded when he’d come home and say “Hi Dad” followed by a long, warm hug.

For sure, our family must move past this knowing that the huge hole left by Lorin’s vacancy can never be filled. It is important that we as a family continue to grow stronger and more embracing of all good humans which Lorin taught us in vibrant ways. We can never lose or forget the fabulous lessons we’ve richly experienced from Lorin; an individual who presented no more and no less of himself. It is so important that his life continue to bring the valued meaning it deserves. And this I shall embrace as a turn the corner of the finale marker of my 60s into a new adventure, my 70s.