I thanked God this morning for the gift of my friend Mike Long. How blessed we have all been to have been touched by his life. Everything he did, whether it was drinking beer, riding his bike, playing with his grandsons or driving to the airport at 11:00 p.m. at night to pick up an athlete, he did with joy, authenticity, and passion. How many of us can say that of how we live our own lives?
From the moment I met him, nearly 10 years ago, it was obvious he was someone special. He opened his heart, his home and his pocketbook without hesitation to many strangers, soon making them his brothers and sisters, children and grandchildren. He was never unscrupulous in his dealings. He never took advantage of anyone. Instead he believed that anyone given a chance, as long at they had the desire, could succeed. It was this approach to his business that made him a success and there is a long list of athletes to prove he was right.
He was living proof that integrity and character count in a world where cynicism and corruption are too often celebrated. We should all strive to live our lives, like Mike, by making the world a better place and smiling while we do it.
So long for now, my friend. Thanks for being here. My God rest your precious soul.
"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me… I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me." - Matthew 25:35