I see my brother

Through my tears, I must write this. I feel like I just need to say it...









My brother, Travis, was a homeless man for nearly 6 years. He lived in a tent (until he caught it on fire), shelters in the winter- his frequented spot was under a bridge.

My brother was an addict. Alcohol and cigarettes, mostly. History of drugs.

My brother had mental illness, never properly diagnosed. He heard voices, he believed lies - many were his own lies and deceptions. Sadly, he rejected his family and our love for him.

Travis was a precious child. Chunky and cute. Always had a rebellious streak and getting into trouble! Travis accepted Christ as a child and was active in our church, children and youth groups. Travis was funny and was fun to be around. He could tell a story. He was a wonderful artist. He was healthy and good-looking. He could play football (#61), kickball, basketball, baseball - all he enjoyed with our eldest brother, Jason and our daddy. I remember how much he enjoyed my mom and grandmothers cooking. He liked music. He loved the beach. He worked construction. He worked off shore on rigs. He was in the army. He was an uncle, and he held my son two times. He never saw my beautiful girl or my sister's sweet son.

What happened? So many things. There are many questions that we have that will never be answered in this life. Travis' health was bad from drinking so heavily and not taking care of himself. He developed diabetes and died @ age 34 due to complications of diabetes on April 26, 2009 in Denver, CO. He was found under a bridge, alone.

Travis is now at peace with his Savior. He is no longer alone. I believe that. I know his life did not reflect a life sold out for Christ - but I believe salvation is a gift that cannot be taken away, no matter what we do.

The world saw a bum.
The lowliest in our society. Thin, long hair, scruffy beard. Dirty clothes and backpack. Weathered face and tired eyes. Panhandling, smells of smoke, in need of a shower. Someone to avoid. Someone who seemingly has no one in this world who cares for them. Drinking, passed out, lost, hopeless.
The world sees a bum.

But I see my brother. God sees His child. And no matter what he was - I love him, the Lord loves him. And I grieve what could have been and the loss of life so young. I feel God's mercy was on him, his chains are gone now. Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me.

Pray for me and my family as we move forward, love, Christie