One month ago I lost the greatest friend, mentor, and inspiration I have ever known.

Although Evan provided me with the knowledge necessary to continue moving in the right direction, I quickly reverted to the self destructive man I once was after he passed. I stopped training, drank excessive amounts of alcohol, abandoned my diet, and selfishly turned my back on the man that Evan had inspired me to become. The world as I knew it no longer existed. I felt lost, alone, and afraid.

Then it dawned on me.

Although I was fortunate enough to bare witness to some of the greatest accomplishments and set backs of Evans life and career first hand, there is only so much one can learn while functioning as another's shadow.

After Evan passed I was forced to come to terms with the fact that in order for me to grow as a person it was necessary for me to give in to my own vices, to confront my own demons, and to succumb to the overwhelming sense of sadness I was presented with.

Only through revisiting the darkest days of my life was I able to move forward. I have lost the man who meant so much to me, yet gained a greater understanding of my true self, and of his gift to me.

Thank you Evan.