How Far We’ve Come

Richie T. has been one of my dearest friends since our days at Classen SAS and I cannot begin to express how happy I am that we have been able to maintain our friendship over the years. One of the most realistic/pessimistic viewpoints my father passed on to me at an earlier age was that friends would come and go. I learned that the hard way as throughout life I've made new friends while falling out with others. I've reconnected with a few while drifted away from many. While it's easy to say that I have many, many acquaintances, I will only admit to a handful of close friends - ones who I trust with my all and can depend on at a moment's notice.


This post serves two functions.

The first being a great reflection of friendships over time. Throughout my life, I have had many friends come and go, but I remain highly appreciative of the few that last. Throughout the years that I have known Richie, I have had countless reasons to be grateful of our relationship. From the sage advice, to the good company, to the countless deep discussions, to him just sitting there and listening to me rant about whatever is on my mind – he has been there for me through thick and thin. And despite him living out of the country for three years, we were able to maintain our friendship. I still remember the first night he arrived back in town was the night my sister was taken to the hospital. He's stood by my side through so much whether it's involved moments as juvenile as girls breaking my heart to issues with deeper gravitas involving religion and spirituality.

The second being a great reminder of the progress that I have made in one year in regards to my physical fitness and health. One year ago, I attended Richie’s birthday dinner right around the time I started visiting the gym. In fact, Richie was one of the many people who accompanied me at the wellness center and pushed me (literally) around the track. Without his encouragement and motivation, I would not be the person I am today. Or at least I wouldn't as in shape. :)

Happy birthday, Richie!

You’re truly the brother I never had. I love you, man.