MIKE WALLACE~MY FRIEND

Who can understand? These are the words I uttered when Melinda told me that my friend, armor bearer and confidant had lost his life on his Harley moments earlier...

Mike came into my life just after my parents passed in 2000. He started by attending the church, eventually volunteering and serving as an usher. Over time he and I would build a relationship of great strength. Mike was a confidant to me. He was the kind of man who need not say a thing, but just his presence was enough to comfort and know he had my back. He met me every Sunday when I'd step from the car, rain or shine. He'd listen, protect me and help with whatever I needed.

When I bought my Harley, Mike rode right next to me, showing me the road and escorting me to and from home to make sure I was safe. In fact, after he taught me the rules of riding in formation he would only give up the point to me or my uncle Jim. One time after Mike and I chased down these guys who passed us we talked about the "what if's" of riding motorcycles. It's a morbid thought, but it happens. It happened to my friend and I still can't believe it.

I know Mike is present with our Lord Jesus Christ. There is no doubt; Mike was the poster child of transformation. A former gang member I met him while he lived in a 28 foot travel trailer with an injured back, no job and a broken family.

In 8 years I saw God restore Mike. I saw his back strengthened through prayer and healing. I rejoiced with him when he got a job with HOS Bros, after each promotion at work he would come to me and say, "Can you believe this?" He bought a Harley and a home, in that order. He loved his kids. He was even going to be a granddad in a little more than a month.

I loved Mike like a brother. Who can understand why such amazing people must leave this earth and go to heaven. Only the Lord knows, and I, in my smallness, hesitate to ask God why because I know He is working together something great for all those who knew and loved Mike. My weeping will endure for a night (season), but joy will come in the morning. I'll never replace my friend and confidant, he's been to good to me. It's hard to imagine another even close to Mike.

Here's to you Mike, thanks for being at all the races, being my friend, handling the tough stuff at times and never leaving the building before me, even when I'd stay for 5 hours at a time. You were more than an warrior, you were my friend. I will miss you.

My prayers are for his children, family and my other friends who were with him in those final miles. I love you all and know, from experience, God's grace will suffice for all of it.