In honor to Craig

In honor to Craig,           

We all awoke Friday to the horror and sadness of loosing a friend, colleague, mentor, and most importantly a Family member. First and foremost, I consider myself a teacher, an educator. Yet, regardless of my many years of experience, I have always felt honored and blessed every time I have had the opportunity to share this stage with Craig. He has touched many of us in our community (and the world), and there are pieces of him that we all are feeling very strongly right now. For me, Craig’s gift of teaching was something that I relished to be a part of, and truly he was not only a colleague, but also a mentor and loving friend. His passion and skill was something that seemed to enliven me in my own pursuits in the educational arena. It was as if he helped me find a greater sense of meaning and purpose in following my own path.

I struggle to count the number of friends I have lost to the mountains. We all lead our lives simply one step at a time. Who knows where our next step may take us. Unfortunately, Craig’s last steps leave us all in this place of sadness and missing. Our community is in shock. Yet, regardless of my pain, it is the grief and loss of Craig’s Family that carries the heaviest burden. At times like these, I know I find myself not only missing someone I have just lost, but it also has a way of rekindling the sorrow and pain of others who have moved on in my past. I know I am not alone in feeling this way. I believe the only solace to be found, is that of embracing a piece of those who have blessed us with their presence; and left us carrying on our lives as better human beings by emulating their ideals and life actions. There is no doubt that Craig has given me this blessing. Thank you dear friend…I will truly miss you.

Bruce E.