Friday, March 21, 2008

2 Years

Well, it may be getting easier to listen to Mike's music, but that doesn't mean I miss him any less. Everyday I miss him. Today marks the second anniversary of his passing. Jenna and I celebrated his life by having a cup of coffee at Starbucks downtown. We also put some flowers on the bike racks. I hope Mike's friends found a way to honor his memory today, even if by a small token of friendship to someone else. I also hope they find comfort in their memories of him.



Tuesday, March 18, 2008

It's getting easier

Today I managed to listen to five songs recorded by Mike before crying. It's the first time I've tried to listen to him in a long time. I guess it's getting easier.

Did you catch that?



Thanks to Rapahel Clemente for showing me this.
Share the road.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Latoya

Last night it was revealed to me that a class mate of mine has found herself homeless.  Her family doesn't want anything to do with her going to school to be educated, so she can't stay at home anymore.

She could not find any shelters who would take her in because she has not been abused, she has no children, she is not pregnant and she has a job. She is a barista at Starbucks.

Now, I had just given a speech in class.  I had concluded my speech with the point, "If I can help you, I will.  I won't lie to avoid you.  I'll tell you like it is and try not to hurt your feelings in the process."

As I listened to Latoya I felt a tug on my heart, a divine spark, that said it was time to step up and do what I said I would do.  Here was an opportunity to help someone.  I asked her to give me her number, and told her I would consult with my niece to see if she could stay with us for a week or so.

Jenna and I agreed to help her out and made room for her to stay on our couch.

Latoya just called me to let me know that her assistant manager has paid for a hotel room for her to stay in for a week until a grant from Starbucks Corporation comes for her next week.  I am reminded that that sort of action by an individual is one of the positive attributes that they try to train into partners at Starbucks.  People are the priority at Starbucks, and this assistant manager has proven her devotion to one of her partners in a  way I would not expect.  Kudos to her!

I think the divine spark I felt last night has sent some actions in motion.  I hope it continues positively for Latoya.  And I can't help thinking my brother Mike has something to do with this.