I’ve been out of the coaching circle at BCHS for a few years.  My wife and I have had two beautiful kids in this time frame away from the football program, but now I’ve decided to come back this year to coach at the middle school level.  I never had the opportunity to get to know Mason Branaman, but since deciding to come back, I felt an urge to pay my respects with the other coaches and team at Mason’s viewing on Thursday. 

In watching the slide show at the church, I couldn’t help but notice the following words: "Grief is the price we pay for love."  How powerful those words prove to be in times of tragedy! 

As I sat there in the pew and watched as family and friends slowly paid their respects, it immediately became apparent to me how many lives this young man has touched in his short time here – including my own.  I was taken back with emotion and teared up several times paying respect to a young man I didn’t even know personally. 

Mason touched numerous lives and left an imprint on this world.  The apparent grief at his showing from everyone who was there is proof that this exceptional young man loved many, and in return, was loved back tenfold. 

In times of tragedy and death, we are assured by our Lord and Savior Jesus that better things await us in paradise.  Although Mason is no longer with us here on earth, we know he is in a better place – in the loving arms of God in heaven.  Mason will be remembered by me as an exceptional, loving, and caring young man, who although I never got the chance to meet, it feels like I’ve known him my whole life.  I’m certain that as this football season nears, number twenty two will be in the heart of every Braves player, coach, and fan. 

You will be missed sorely, and although you have gone to a better place, you will never be forgotten.

#22