this week last year...

This week last year was one of the worst I have experienced in my life. This week last year, my dear counselor, but more importantly friend, Mike Simila, took his own life on his beloved property in the Keewenaw Penisula. I remember the day as if it was yesterday. I remember where I sat, who was there, how we found out and the emotions running through and out of my body that night. I was frusterated; frusterated that I couldn't have done one small thing to save him from ending his life. What hurt and still hurts even more is watching my family, most importantly my father, lost for days, even weeks with hurt and anger of the events that took place. How could someone so helpful, so positive, so honest take his own life when he influenced so many people during his years in this world. I still find myself at the most random times wondering what the hell happened. I sit here at my computer and stare frequently at the picture that has become my favorite in the last year. It is of Mike, my Dad and I fishing on the shores of Lake Superior. How could the friendly, laid-back personality of my high school counselor change so fast?!? I do not remember the last thing I said to Mike. I only can cherish the last visit, and all others like them, that I made with him. My dad, him and I talking at his house in Harbor Springs, watching the Tigers game last summer and discussing the future. I miss his visits to our house, the Sunday's watching Lions games, visits to his office during gym class and his smile when laughing about what girl I was currently chasing. I will never see Regatta week/weekend in the same light again. Mike helped me get through those tough years in High School and I can never thank him for that, although I can believe that he knew in the back of his mind. What I can do for Mike now is use what he gave me and live stronger and better than I would have had I not known him. Thank you Mike, rest in peace my friend.