Because He Still Matters: Louie "Blue" Friedrichs

#BecauseHeStillMatters

Today I am remembering Louie.  My friend and companion.  He left us 13 years ago today.  It is easier to think of him now, the boy that he was.  It is easier, at best.  It is easier to think of everything he has missed.  The birth of my child, of so many children that would have cooed in wonder and amazement at all the sparkling and shiny things he would have brought to them.  The advent of the IPOD, which would have reduced the weight of his backpack by 100 cds, and who knows how many tapes and Walkmans.  The cellular phone that would have fit in his pocket.  The computer tablet that would have freed him to wander the  world and show his amazing discoveries to everyone.  The electric charging pads would have changed the world view of the boy who once powered an all night party at his house with car batteries when his electricity was out. 3D movies with characters like the close personal friends that roamed his imagination, and that if you were just lucky enough he would share with you once in a while.

It is not easier to admit my own selfishness.  Not at all easier to contemplate what I have missed in his absence.  The twinkle in his eye when anyone he knew came into sight.  The gentle hug of greeting every time you saw him.  The tender forgiveness of every misdeed.  The ability to change dark into light with just a few words.  The unconditional love he offered endlessly to everyone. The piece of me that he took with him, that I wouldn't take back even if I could.

Today I change all my profile images to his.  Today I remember Louie Friedrichs.  Not by holding the things he left behind.  Not only by crying the tears that only end long enough too remember how much I miss and still love him.

Today I remember Louie Friedrichs, because he is a part of me, and of everyone who knew him, and WE ARE WHAT IS LEFT OF HIM.
Today, I remember Louie Blue - BECAUSE HE STILL MATTERS.