Safety First

Three years today, Jason's grandmother Lester passed away. She raised him since he was a kid; a few weeks ago, he warned me that the month of July would be tough for him. Though I never met her, she has come to be a part of my life. I know she's an angel in his life; he woke up this morning and mentioned that she had sent him messages through his dreams.

Without going in to details, this morning there was frustration between us. I was moody; he was moody. Out of playfulness, we say and pronounce it 'Muddy, muddy Libra;' were both Libras, uh, ho

Instead of going to the gym, I went out for an early morning run; it felt good to feel the sunshine and fresh air. Rather than let the frustration boil up, I thought of his grandmother and said a little prayer in her honor. I said a little prayer in his honor. I prayed that on this day of memorial, there was light rather than darkness.

A few months ago, Jason and I started a journal where we could both write down our thoughts and feelings; it would be a safe place for us to share. I liked the word 'safety' as a code word to let the other know that we needed a little understanding and love. This morning, we were both in need of it. And so as I kept running, I felt love for him. I knew that I would come home and rather than be 'muddy,' I would be kind. When I came into the apartment, I sat down and we talked; it felt easy and light. I smiled; we were all right.

The piece here is titled "Welcome Aboard Mr. John." It was commisioned for my boss and friend Brad John. I choose this piece today because I am thankful to God for the angels, both in and out of uniform, that fly our friendly skies. To all the angels in our world, we love you!

Thank you Mrs. Lester for raising an amazing and beautiful man.

I love you mister!

"This moment I wake up, Before I put on my makeup, I say a little prayer for you…"