We live in a world where we often forget one of life's realest truths, that death is inevitable. It makes no exceptions to gender, race, economic status, and definitely not age. One day our time will come, but somehow we forget that. We often leave people thinking we will see them tomorrow, next week or at the next family reunion in 4 months. We don't stop to think how it could be our last conversation or encounter with them. I know that's not what I thought the last time I saw my now two heroes in Heaven, Warren Wesley Warner III and Michael Edward Kelly. Both of these individuals have similar stories. Both were great men who left many loved ones too soon. They left us with many questions. They left behind a legacy.
After being diagnosed with Meningitis, Warren went into a coma. He was in a coma for 19 days. We spent those days praying to be able to see his breath taking blue eyes once again, but on April 8, 2010, my best friend called me to tell me her older brother would not make it. I was so confused. I did not understand how this could happen when so much prayer was said day and night. What was the reason for all of this?
One month ago on May 8th, I received similar news to the ones I had three years earlier. After being in a coma for almost a week, my friend Michael would not make it either. I remember being in the room with him the day before. It was the first time since knowing him that I did not have a smile on my face when being around him. He was always making everyone smile. So many people were praying for him. We thought he would make it through, but again Heaven got another angel.The following day I had an Econ midterm. I needed to study, but all I wanted to do was spend time with people I loved. And that's all I wanted to do from then on. I found myself being more present and authentic in conversations I had with people and accepting more invitations to hangout and have meals with friends. I put in more of an effort to call, text or snap chat (yes, I'm one of those) friends more often to tell them I loved them and to stay connected. I found myself reaching out to more people and to be more like Mike. It was the same thing when Warren passed away.
And that's when it hit me. I don't know what the reason is for Warren and Michael dying young, but I do know their impact is one of a kind. The legacy they have left behind is powerful and it is beautiful. In a world where death is guaranteed and where many die alone and unfulfilled, these men gave us the gift of perspective. The gift of a second chance to look around and count your blessings. The gift of appreciating the present moment. The gift of courage to be yourself. The gift of desiring to bring happiness where ever you go because that is what they did. These individuals were loved by so many people because of who they were. These men were warriors of God.
It's sad it often takes these kind of tragedies to remind us of the things that matter, but we have to hold on to the inspiration of these two men. We have to in order for us to keep some sanity in this reality without them. These men will never be forgotten. Ever since Warren died, my best friend and I along with countless others have kept his memory alive. The 8th is always a day of remembrance. And it will be for the both of them. Both were organ donors. Scholarships have been made in their honor. The Kelly Classic happened a week ago in honor of Michael. I got to play the game we both love in his name. They may be physically gone, but their spirit lives on. This kind of impact will continue to change lives and I feel so blessed to have been given the opportunity to have known them. They have touched my life and I will always strive to keep their memory alive. Each is different in their own way, but similar in what their memory will do for many people. Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.
RIP WWWIII and MK
Love you both so much.
Thank you for inspiring me to be a better person every day.
<3
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