Art Undone: Thoughts on a 30th birthday.

I wanted to write this post for my brother Justin. He turned 30 July 2nd. Tonight we will dine as family and celebrate his life.

Justin is a very creative guy. He's always been pursuing one passion or another, be it basketball in elementary-high school or writing and music later on. He has greatly influenced me to explore my own creativity, always believing that I had it in me. That's meant a lot to me.

In childhood we weren't very close. Mostly we clung to our separate ways as we lived in a very unhappy family. Later, we became closer as new insights and dreams took hold. We've had our fair share of relationship ups and downs; in the end we always make it work and stay connected.

I think one of the things I most admire about Justin is his ability to really connect with children, particularly those with special needs. For the past 5 or 6 years he has worked in public schools helping these students. I am continually amazed at the relationships he forges and the impact I know he's having on their lives. Mr. "B" they call him, he's a hero to many children. He has a very tender heart, not to be taken for granted, a well of limitless possibilities. Happy birthday wonderful brother- I believe in you.