On August 27th 2009, Matthew E. Wildes was killed in action by a roadside bomb while deployed in Afghanistan. He was my first friend and best friend.

Since then, I treat his birthday and death day as a time for contemplation, remembrance, and celebration of his life and our friendship. Growing up so close and at such a young age, the influence of our relationship runs deep. I wouldn’t be who I am today without him.

I don’t have much more in words right now. But this is what’s alive for me right now—Matt is on my mind and in my heart today.