“There are things that we don't want to happen but have to accept, things we don't want to know but have to learn, and people we can't live without but have to let go.” ~ Unknown
Well, I know it’s been a while since I’ve been able to post on my blog, and I truly miss it. Life got so busy with school, work, and photography, that I’ve had no time to do something that I really love; writing. As many of you know, I’m not one to write about life events or what’s going on around me; rather, I write open your minds and try to expand the horizons on normal thought. However, an exception has been made for this blog post because of the impact it had on my life…the story follows.
On Saturday, May 26th, I lost one of the greatest friends a friend could ever ask for. Although, it wasn’t just one of the greatest friends, it was 4 of them. This post is not intended to tell you what happened, but to recognize the 4 great individuals we lost on this day.
I’d like to start with Tanner Holt, the one I knew least of the group…but felt like could relate too. I had met him a few times but never got the opportunity to hang out with him. Prior to his death I had heard so many great things about him, and I really wish I had made the time to get to know. I know from a close friend that he loved his nephew more than anything…and I’ve seen it in the pictures of them together. Just like all the boys, he seemed like a very friend oriented person, and it’s tragic that we had to lose him.
Colby Hafen, where do I even start? Another guy I am blessed to have known and grateful to have spent time with. He was the oldest of the bunch but a kid at heart, really knew how to have a good time and treated everyone with respect. I remember our few trips to Mesquite and the laughter he would bring to the table, even those he didn’t even know. The first time I officially met Colby he said, “you know those girls you always see at the party that seem way cool and you wanna know them, but you just can’t get yourself to talk to them? Well…you’re that guy for me.” The smile it brought to my face can’t be duplicated. Just goes to show the kind of friend Colby was to everyone he encountered. I love you man, now introduce yourself to all the true angels we thought we’d find on earth.
Jordan Chapman, the man lady’s wanted, and all the men wish they were. He had a smile that would light up the room and the personality to fit. As with all of these boys, I met him through friends and I am proud to call him a friend of my own. He had such a kind demeanor about him that is unmatched. He was so outgoing and I remember meeting him for the first time on a trip to Salt Lake, with him and Alex combined, I don’t think I will laugh that hard ever again.
Alex Metzger, like a brother to me, and a friend to many. Alex….Alex, he was an original to say the least; the most amazing sense of humor that would brighten anyone’s day. He instantly became friends with anyone he came in contact with, especially the girls. He was always wanting everyone to have a good time, and I was one fortunate enough to have those good times with him. He came up with the most original words, phrases, and ways of going about the most dull subject. He’s the kind of person you can just look at, and laugh because of who he is, and how he is.
I was fortunate enough to talk to Alex the day before his death, and I’m proud to say the last words I said to him were, “Love ya man, have fun.” He had called to invite me with them in their travels, but unfortunately couldn’t join because I was up north on business. I keep thinking to myself that I wish I was on that plane with them, and if I were in town, I would have been. Being with them would be easier than having to miss them.
They were all great wingmen, now they are all true wingmen. They lived for their friends, and have now died for them too. The brought so many people joy and love that will always be remembered and never be forgotten. They have brought an already close group of friends, even closer together. They have taught us all many lessons through their lives…most without knowing it. Now, in their passing, they taught us one more. Take each day, live it, breathe it, love it, cherish it, and spend it with the people who mean most; because just like that…it can be over.
In the words of Alex Metzger, “Live life as though when you die, it all starts over again.”
“While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil.” ~John Taylor
