Willows of Macedon

crying

My little brother Michael died when I was 5 years into working on my startup, but only 2 years into it actually being launched and open to the public. In those 2 years he was alive while I was running the business I only took 2 days off of work: The first time was after he was stabbed 11 times, I went to be with him in the hospital. The second time was 2 years later when I got the call that my mother had found him unresponsive. I still remember calling my business partner and asking him to cover or cancel the things I had to do that day. And I remember the 25 minute drive to my parents house that I made in complete silence. I remember planning the funeral with the same cold precision and effectiveness I run my startup. And I remember the humanity and respect I tried to give him when I hosted and MC'd the remembrance of life. And of course I remember very fondly the 19 years we had together. Today on February 12th, it's been 7 years since I last saw him. In the years since his death I've thought most prudent to mark the date with festivities, new experiences, and loud fanfare to note the life and soul of a great human being. But maybe its a combination of getting older, and learning lessons about humanity the hard way.. right now I am creating habits and being disciplined. I've broke through mental barriers this year and I'm focused, solely, on creating the life we always talked about having. Creating the wealth, and the opportunity, and helping people just like Michael. 7 years later when I say "laser focused" I finally understand what I'm focused on. Gotchu buddy, still.