“This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.” Titus 3:8

I was reminded yesterday of how terribly sad, and yet incredibly joyful, a day can be. Having the honor of attending the funeral service of a local icon, it was readily apparent that the gentleman in passing was well on his way to becoming a legend.

Eric Geistert was a tough guy! And you know I love tough guys. I met him 43 years ago and the meeting made an impression. Tough, rough, factual and boisterous, he was a man you KNEW was around when he was around. His wishes EASILY became commands to employees and made others, at least, pay attention!

Eric recently passed away, having lived longer than most. At the cemetery where he was interred, a veterans honor guard was present to pay respects…honorably. When called to speak, I already new this was going to be one for the books. So I started they way MY dad always told me to start. “Sooooo, family friends and associates, I’d like YOU to tell me about Eric! What impressed you about him and what did he teach you?” I was glad I brought a pen!

Being surrounded by a WHOLE bunch of tough guys could have been intimidating. But these guys were there to pay their respects. And they did it like Eric would have himself…loud and clear! EVERY loud shout out was a sentence that had come from Eric’s own lips. “Take pride in your work!” and “don’t embarrass the family name!” were 2 that stood out. They reminded me of this Bible verse.

Living a life that stands out for its honesty, generosity, encouragement, loyalty and personal responsibility is an art that is dying off. With BLM and the destructive riots across our country, I was beginning to think the good guys were about to fade away entirely. But yesterday gave me hope!

At this saddest, yet most joyful event in a man’s history, I saw a large group of tough people celebrate a man who loved God and County. Who lived like he preached it. And made impressions on everyone he met to do exactly the same thing. I cannot wait to see him again in heaven to thank him for his service! May we all make such an impression for God.