I lost a childhood friend one week ago. I suppose his independence day was not about this country but independence from this life and this earth. He was not the first classmate I have lost. In the early years there were quite a few. A car wreck, a risk that we all take when we get behind the wheel and suicide when the world looms larger than one's abilities to cope alone were the dominate causes. Ten years ago we lost our valedictorian, our first classmate to succumb to cancer. As I sit at this hour and reflect, I realize my graduating class numbered twenty-six. Deaths have reduced that number by about twenty-five per cent.

My friend that died last Sunday was Greg Welch, he died after a brief battle with cancer. Greg was probably one of the better known member of our class. He was a former World Champion Cutting Horse Trainer and Rider. He followed in his father's footsteps there. I catch myself smiling and thinking about time spent on the "18" Ranch when Greg's family lived there, my first memory of him involved an all out playground brawl in first grade (we were on the same side), the required trip to the Principal's office (Mr. Boston), twelve years of classes, band, and athletics. Red hair (when he had hair) and freckles, a bow legged gait, a football jersey with number 52, all of these will forever remind me of Greg. He is survived by a son, Lance, his ex-wife Pax (they determined they were better friends than lovers), his parents Buster and Ginger, his step mom Sheila, a brother Ken, two sisters Ruth Ann and Georgia, and he was preceded in death by a daughter, Whitney. He is remembered by a host of friends.

One odd note, my friend David that died recently from cancer grew up just a few miles from Greg. David's family was about the closest neighbor to the Welch's when they lived on the "18". With David and Greg both there, heaven just got a little more mischievous. I pause to honor your memory along with that of Peggy, Ricky, Roger and Alice. I know it is entirely possible there are more who did not have permanent roots within the community.

FATHER, help us to realize that this earth is just a temporary stop for us. Help us to realize our ultimate goal is to be home with YOU in heaven. FATHER, bless Greg's family as they cope with the void he has left, comfort them. FATHER, the last word I had was encouraging for Aimee, continue to bless her and heal her. FATHER, I am thankful that Rene's chemo is going well. I continue to ask you to work your miracle of healing on her. FATHER, bless Carol Pickett as the doctors develop a treatment plan for her cancer, be with her and her family. FATHER bless Michelle as they continue to track her problem, I ask that if it is a brain aneurysm that is operable. Bless her family. Heal them all. FATHER, I praise YOU and lift up YOUR name and I confess that you are a mighty GOD and through YOU all things are and will be. Work YOUR plan LORD.