My little hero, Gabriel "Tater" Singleton. We'll always love and miss you!
The celebration of his life the past couple of days was nothing short of amazing. Gabriel touched many people near and far. If you ever had the opportunity to meet him and his family, you surely felt the love, happiness and true faith with which they live their lives. This family is amazing and an inspiration.
Gabriel's smile was always certain to brighten the most dismal of days. More often than not, you couldn't even tell he was battling the horrible disease, cancer. He was always full of energy, loved building Legos, showing off his beads, and other priceless items he's collected over the years. I was lucky enough to have been given a pen by him. To most, it's just a pen. To me, however, it is an irreplaceable symbol of a special bond that Seth and I were blessed to have formed with Gabriel and his family. For that I am truly grateful.
The services to honor his life were beyond anything I've ever had the privilege to be a witness to. A LEO was constantly standing guard over their fallen brother. The changing of the guard seldom left a dry eye in the room. The pictures of him that were shown on a big screen depicted how he lived his life...strongly, and bravely. The procession, lead by a multitude of official vehicles, stretched for miles, all with their lights on. I know he loved seeing all the police cars and fire trucks leading his body to where it would be laid to rest.
He never let the disease slow or hinder his love of life. And he made sure those around him didn't feel sorry or sad for him either. He was an angel long before he earned his wings.
Please continue to pray for his family and friends as they walk a road that I wouldn't wish on anyone. May God bless them and give them the strength they'll need going forward. May God bring Gabriel to them in their dreams and keep his shining smile in their hearts and minds throughout their lives.
Seth - thank you for all you have given me throughout the years. Were it not for you, I would not have had the honor of meeting this family and the others you've helped throughout the years. I love you, brother.