Stars. Lights from above that reveal their beauty to life on the ground. They lead us and guide us through life. They inspire us to persevere. Much like memories.
When I was given the assignment to write a tribute to somebody, dead or alive, I immediately thought of one of my most prominent memories, a star, my cousin Ryan Briere.
Ryan was an bundle of energy whose curiosity never stopped. Instead of running inside away from the rain, he ran outside to the rain and admired its wonder. Ryan constantly taught those around him how to optimistically love life and see it as beautiful, not flawed.
This is a picture of Ryan (right) with my cousin Noah (left).
On January 11, 2011, Ryan and his family went to Portillos for dinner. He choked on a hot dog and passed away that night, just a few weeks before his third birthday.
In his memory and to honor his constant curiosity and care for others, the Ryan Briere Foundation was created. The Ryan Briere Foundation helps various organizations, mostly ones pertaining to children.
This is a link to the Ryan Briere Foundation website.
Wow. I went to the Foundation website, and I can tell what a special little guy Ryan was. Thank you for writing this beautiful tribute to this shining star.
ReplyDeleteI could not possibly love you anymore than I already do Abby! I know that 6 years later Ryan would still be looking up to you and trying to make a serious face ~ likely giggling the entire time.
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