Dateline Dayton – As I have mentioned in previous essays. Ari and I grew up in Piqua. My grandparents lived down the street from the Noonan’s and I spent a lot of time at my grandparents house. Ari was a couple years older, so I spent most of my time on Broadway with his younger brother Paul, who was closer to my age.

After Ari graduated from high school, he moved from Piqua, as did I a few years later, thus I lost contact both both Paul and Ari. I would see their dad, occasionally when we were visiting in Piqua and he always spoke. It wasn’t until Mr. Noonan’s funeral that I became reacquainted with Ari. That’s when I met his wife, Diane.

I really only knew Diane from what Ari would write me or a great essay in The Front Page On Line about their activates, her work, and then her struggles with ALS. The one thing very apparent, was Ari love for Diane and her love of Ari.

It’s very sad that someone so young, with so much to give, has to be taken from our mist, but God must have another assignment for her. Although gone from her earthly home, I’m sure she will be looking after Ari and helping him get through this difficult time.

I’m not good with words, especially in these difficult situations. I’m reminded of the verse about the footprints in the sand, when questioned as to why there was only one set during the most difficult of times, God said “that’s when I was carrying you”.

Take care of yourself Ari.

Real Sportsmen

In previous essays, I have also mentioned that I’m not much a sports fan, but do enjoy going to see the Dayton Dragons play baseball. Sunday, however I found myself between patching the wall at our son’s place and cutting the grass, watching the golf match. This is something I have now done on numerous occasions, on a Sunday afternoons. These young players make golf interesting and the shots and putts they can make are phenomenal.

Previous I’ve told you about my respect for Phil Mickelson, as a player and Sunday both Jordan Spieth and Jason Day have gained my respect. Jordan and Jason are two young guys and both were exceptional in the PGA Tournament Sunday.

Jordan was a true sportsman and Jason showed the world that it was ok to be emotional after a record win. Sure, after putting three balls in the drink, you might be frustrated enough to place your club there too. But I find most golfers to be real sportsmen, unlike many players in other professional sports.