A Great Example

I have known Craig since he was just a little kid in primary. When we first moved to West Jordan we met the Decker family when we moved in. Their house was across the fence from ours, and they were one of the first to welcome us to the ward. Our families have been friends ever since. I have always admired all of them. I got to know Craig from a distance as an observer of his life more than as a participant in it. He was conspicuous because of his smile, his happy personality, and because he was just so darn nice. He never changed as he grew older. He was fun, happy, thoughtful, and a great example to my younger kids.

We had to move away a few years ago, but friendships continue despite separation by time and distance. I got a call from another young man from our old ward who was pretty shook up. He wanted to let me know that Craig had an accident with fireworks. He was there when it happened, so it was traumatic for him, and it was a major shock to me. I had a tough time with the news -- I guess because I thought so highly of Craig that I just felt devastated that something so bad could happen to someone so wonderful.

It was hard being far away, and not being able to visit him. I guess word got to Craig that I was not handling it well. The day he got out of the hospital he called me, because HE was worried about ME. He was cheering me up, and consoling me instead of the other way around. He was the strong one, and I was the one who was emotional. On that day he helped me grow, and he helped me gain a greater perspective. He strengthened me.

Six months later we moved back to Utah and got to see him at his father's surprise birthday party. Seeing him was kind of hard, and I guess it showed on my face. He came over to me with that big smile of his and gave me a hug. He said, "It's ok. Really." Then he looked at me with that genuine smile of his. I watched him play with some kids, and just by watching him I realized that he really was handling his injury just fine. It wasn't just an act. He really was ok.

--David Bresnahan