Rick,

I wanted to let you know that I have not forgotten you…
That with every passing day, I find, I have to start a-new
My life’s so sad without you, and I cry most every day,
So let me tell you what it’s like, and why I feel this way.

At times I think of you and smile, I often call your name
and when I dream of you it seems you’re smile is just the same
Sometimes I start to comprehend that this is all too real;
What time, and pain, must I endure, my heart and soul to heal?

I search in every crowd, you know, just looking for your face...
Before I stop to realize...you're in another place.
So many days begin, and then, the world just falls apart.
I make it through because I feel you're deep within my heart.

From time to time I seem to catch a whiff of your cologne...
The scent so real I hear your voice, when I pick up the phone.
And when I hear a song or verse that makes me think of you,
My mind forgets and I believe what happened isn't true.

At times I want to hide and pout, then scream your name out loud,
And then to shout and tell the world how much you've made me proud.
At times I go from room to room in search of you and then...
It hits me in the gut...there will be no warm hugs again.

I know that I will see you, Rick, when my turn comes to go,
But just for now I'll miss you... more than you can ever know.
Please know I love you more and more with every passing day,
And someday I'll be with you, when God sends me on my way...

We celebrate your birthday this May 16th 2001!!
  I love you and I miss you...
           Your loving Wife
                     Christi L. Whitley