Two days before Corey was attacked, I shared a YouTube video to his Facebook page.  It was the song “Simple Man” (Lynyrd Skynyrd).  I wanted to relay to him some of the thoughts I had about how I’d hope his life would be…

“Oh, take your time, don’t live too fast
Troubles will come and they will pass
You’ll find a woman and you’ll find love
And don’t forget, son, there is someone up above”

“And be a simple kind of man
Oh, be something you love and understand
Baby be a simple kind of man
Oh, won’t you do this for me, son, if you can”…

And you can do this, oh baby, if you try

“Boy, don’t you worry, you’ll find yourself
Follow your heart and nothing else
And you can do this, oh baby, if you try
All that I want for you, my son, is to be satisfied”

I forced him to listen to it before he left the house that night in late July 2013…

I listened to it tonight, and bawled.

He never had a chance to find himself. He was only 22 when someone stole his future!

He will never become a computer programmer or game creator

He will never become a father

He’ll never buy a home

He’ll never pick out a car

He’ll never be a simple kind of man.

Two days from now will be the 4th anniversary of his murder. And though I talk a good game, I can feel my heart breaking inside my chest.  My son is no less gone today than he was 4 years ago.

To remember Corey’s death, we are holding a candle vigil for all homicide victims in the metropolitan area.  We’ll be holding up posters, pictures, and banners. We’ll also be handing out fliers with the pictures of the individuals still without justice.

I think now, about how I just wanted him to be satisfied… and how un-simplified my life has become since his death.

Lord in heaven, I pray that my son has found satisfaction. That he knows I love him… and I will until my dying day.

Father, I also pray that as we stand vigil for those whose killers have not been found, we can help someone find answers. Please Father, bless this gathering. Help us, Lord, to make a difference within our community.

Amen