Remembering Charles

He is still very much with us.  His verbiage, gestures and facial expressions are as much a part of us as they were of him. He was gregarious, gracious and generous -- giving me the most precious gift, other than salvation through Jesus the Christ, I have ever received --- my Sweet Pea.  And he gave of himself to others -- while teaching social studies, fulfilling assistant principal duties, doing music ministry at the same church for 35 years, giving to others in need (even those who later bit the hand with which he had literally fed them), and even while in "rehab" at Memorial Hermann TIRR, ministering to and encouraging others.  

I remember speaking of Charles to my good friend and mentor to a point where I apologized for "going on and on," to which he replied "why are you apologizing?  It is a good thing that he is remembered.  Think of all the people who aren't!"  And so, on this his birthday, I still remember this amazing man, who remained my good friend until he departed this life.  Happy birthday, Charles.E. Richards, II.  Even while we miss you, we are happy for you.