Let me tell you about someone who has been apart of my life for the past 10 years. Let me tell you about someone who has changed my life. Let me tell you about someone who has been my biggest encourager since day 1. Let me tell you about the guy who stole my birthday.
Austin Lemmon. Man. If you want to know what a man after God’s own heart looks like, look no further. I first met Austin back in high school at Christian club. I was a sophomore, and he was a freshman at the time. I only knew one person upon entering Christian club at the time, and that friend introduced me to Austin. Austin and I immediately became friends. I remember so often spending the night at his house, staying up all night playing world of Warcraft, or our particular favorite, binge watching lord of the rings. We would even sometimes get groups together and go “parkour” around the neighborhood. We would host epic LAN(pretty much a huge video game party) nights with pizza and drinks. We would swim in his pool and just chill in each other’s company.
A couple years ago, Austin got married to his wife Shaye, and man, I wish I could be half the husband he is. He loves his wife so well, and honors her above everyone else. The way he talks about her shows how much he loves her and it is definitely evident! They also have a little girl name Bryer! She is the sweetest little thing, and before leaving for the race, I had the opportunity to hang out with Austin and Bryer a few times before leaving. Her favorite movie is trolls, and she watches it literally every day.
But the reason I write this isn’t so I could share who Austin is. That’s cool, of course. The reason I write this is to show you who Austin has been to me. He has been my best friend for the past 10 years. He has constantly encouraged me in times of struggle. He has pushed me to get back into reading my word. He has been the person who was always honest with me when I needed him to be. He has been the one who has helped keep me accountable with my struggles. I owe this man so much, and I don’t plan on ever forsaking our friendship. Before the race, about January, I really let out friendship go. I stopped texting or calling him, I got lost in what I wanted and my new friends. Yet Austin never stopped calling or texting me. He would do this religiously every week. And man, it would encourage me so much. As the race started, I started messaging him and calling him more, and I’m never taking that for granted again.
Austin, as you read this man, thank you so much for the impact you have had in my life. You’re my best friend, but more than that you’re my brother, and I love you bro.
All I have to say is there is a chair.
Thank you you guys so much for reading! As of today, I still need to raise 4, 200 dollars. If you know of anyone who would be willing to donate or you are willing to donate, that would be much appreciated!
