002:

Jared's funeral was held in Warburton Australia, and he was buried on his property outside Warburton. He'd already made all the arrangements, even down to military transportation home for them all.

Matthew stood at the graveside long after everyone had returned to the house. Melia was not far off either, staring out at the landscape with dry eyes. She held Hannah in a front sling over her flowery yellow dress, blowing in the wind that had come up. It was late afternoon. Should he go to her?

Jared had written him a letter. Jared had written everyone letters. They'd been distributed in a small ceremony before the funeral, like what might have been a prayer meeting or a viewing. He hadn't wanted a viewing. He'd originally wanted to be cremated, but after being with Melia and her beliefs didn't include cremation, he had opted for a burial on his property and he'd made all the arrangements.

Matthew watched Melia standing there, the dress blowing against her legs, her hair wafting out behind her and decided she was okay for another minute. He got out the letter again.

"My friend,

Our time together was shorter than I would have liked it to be, had it been longer we'd have done a helluva lot more hydroplaning that's for sure! Probably some sky diving without the crashing, some hiking in the Bob Marshall, some repelling in Utah, some scuba diving, some caving. There's some awesome ice caves in Idaho. I think you will make your home there someday, somewhere in the west when it's time to settle down.

You're probably not thinking about marriage right now, but you should. It's been the most amazing life changing event for me. I was alone before, alone in my heart, caring for a lot of people, but none really. Marriage has changed all that. I love her with all my heart, and to love something that much is a blessing.

I've been thinking a lot about blessings lately. I believe there is a God, and he gives us, his children, blessings. I think he really, really likes to give gifts, special gifts tailored to perfection to maximize the most enjoyment for us. I think he must like to see our faces when we realize the gifts are so useful, so planned out, so special, no one else could have given them. It makes the one receiving the gifts feel so cared about. I just want to share all that caring feeling I have. I think that's the point... God's gifts are pass along gifts.

I would have liked to be baptized. I would have liked to take Melia to her temple. I think there isn't going to be enough time left. That's okay. I've had more time than I ever expected.

Please take care of her. She's a little nuts with grief right now. That's understandable, but you can help with that. I've taught you everything I know about the current. The rest you'll have to figure out for yourself.

Ride your bike. Don't get fat. Buy your mom flowers. Call your sister. Join the church. Fulfill your job well. Be buff like me. Shave your head, you have way too much hair. Kiss my girl for me, hold her close, tell her I told you to.

Your friend, Jared Patrick

******