The Leiter side of life…

In loving memory…

Today’s photo is one that represents a celebration of a birthday and of the Red Sox home opener!

Back in 1986, on April 12th, the world was given the gift of my dear friend, Dan.  Unfortunately, his time here was short and he died unexpectedly back in 2007 just after his 21st birthday.

I do not share this photo lightly or wish to burden whoever views today’s photo, but, instead, display it in memory of his life as an inspiration. To live simply.  To live kindly.  To live wholeheartedly.  These are things Dan did every day seamlessly effortlessly.

This picture is from a lifetime ago.  I think I was a sophomore or junior in high school.  This is no longer me and no longer him, but for a while, this was all we knew. I love this photo because it represents the happiness we found in each others friendship.  Despite the rough times RDHS often had to offer, we were genuinely happy here.  We had our friends to get us through.

I loved Dan’s Doors t-shirt.  It was my favorite and I always joked that I would steal it one day.  He was a true, old school rock ‘n’ roll lover and I almost always think of him whenever “Gimme Shelter” blares (because- duh- it’s the Rolling Stone’s- it’s definitely always blaring).

He also loved the Red Sox.  I remember pestering Dan endlessly as he patiently watched the games (this was pre-2004 World Series mind you) me not being able to sit still and wanting to go cause a ruckus somewhere in Owls Head.

There were most certainly some bad memories that we shared from high school too, but I can’t seem to remember them any more.  Dan is always remembered in my mind, my heart and my soul as a true blue midcoast Mainer.  He worked hard and played harder, and he ALWAYS had my back.  He was a true friend and is dearly missed by many, myself included.

I share this photo today in honor of his birthday and his love for the Red Sox, but also as a reminder to believe in what you do.  Dan almost always did.  That’s not an easy task by any means. If you don’t wholeheartedly believe in what you’re doing, question whether or not you should be and remember there is still time to change and what better a time for new beginnings then spring!?