As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I believe that there is more than our earthly life. I believe in a spirit world (heaven), where we can go to learn and be with our families forever. This belief gives me hope and a testimony that my loved ones are cared for.
Mike or Kriesel, as I think most people called him, was so full of laughter. He was always happy and positive. And like I mentioned above, his smile was one of the most spectacular things anyone could behold. I loved being able to do shows with him, take classes with him, and more importantly hang out with him and play frisbee.
When I left for college, I would always check on my friends status updates and pictures. Kriesel has been a favorite to keep up on. He is an amazing family member, I loved seeing how wonderful and happy he was with his family. I loved seeing the pictures from his obstacle courses, and I really want to do one because of him. I also love that he continued learning. He went above and beyond average. Not just in education, but in relationships. He truly cared about people.
Reflecting on this tragedy, I have realized that I need to make more of an effort to keep in touch with the people I care about. I need to take opportunities to capture those moments. I only have two pictures with Mike, out of the hundreds of memories and moments I spent with him. I know that someday he will be reunited with his family. I know that he is in a wonderful place learning and being filled with love. I know that he has been embraced and held by angels. Our time on the earth may seem so long, but in a flash we will be reunited with our lost loved ones and it will be comforting. The beautiful day will come, but for the time being, life is short and we have to enjoy every second. I look up to Mike as someone who truly enjoyed his life. He left with no regrets. He is an example to me. Instead of lingering on his absence I will use his life as my inspiration. I will be more positive and enjoy every moment given to me. I will work hard and make my goals and dreams come true. I will remain close to my family and friends and will cherish the moments I have with them.
Mike was and is an amazing friend and person. I know that he is in the most wonderful place surrounded by angels.
p.s. We totally dominated those Foosball games. I think it was 7-1. :)
Please feel free to post any memories you have of Mike. It would be great to have them recorded so that we can look back on them and laugh.
