Every life provides obstacles, many of which we overcomplicate in hopes of receiving pity. Yet, there are some obstacles reserved for a variety of brave souls to endure. For every obstacle I hyperbolized in hopes of receiving attention, I am humbled to remember each obstacle you conquered despite a lack of preparation. Life led you to a point that would cause many to drift slowly into the forfeiting abyss; however, you overcame. Even today, years after life’s greatest obstacle stood in your way, you inspire those who are still blessed to call you a friend.

Very few will stand before the Lord having endured the pain and hardships life have brought to your door. Slowly death dragged you down a road of no return; nevertheless, you turned the other direction and ran toward the light. Tweets are littered with quotes about getting up when life knocks you down but you are a living testament. A lighthouse guides in the darkness and reminds all those at sea that someone is still fighting. It is my honor to consider you to be a lighthouse for those who call you brother.

Distance ceases to disparage the unimaginable things you have accomplished with your life.

For those who said you wouldn’t wake back up, you shot out of bed.

For those who said you would never walk again, you ran.

For those who said you would never be the same, you left behind teenage years and became a man.

And for those who will continue to tell you that you cannot, you will forever shatter their expectations until God guides you into eternity.

For my friend who has continued to remind me what it truly means to fight, have faith, and overcome, I simply wanted to remind you that you continue to inspire all those who love you no matter how many miles separate our souls. On days where life seems to throw more problems than solutions, always remember that God has prepared that season for your life. Life tried to take you away; however, you kept laughing, living, and loving in a way nobody thought possible. You have been created to be the hope for a generation in need of a brother who never quits. So when life gets hard always know you have brothers thinking about you knowing that you can overcome.

We love you Mark the Shark.

We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.

2 Corinthians 4: 9-11