Jarod, It's hard to imagine a world where you are not somewhere strumming on your guitar, writing a new song, teaching someone the wonders of music, or serenading a lucky listener. While it has been a long while since we last saw each other, you were always an incredibly supportive, kind-hearted, open-minded friend. Throughout our teenage youth at Upton, SJHS, and into adulthood, there were many moments that your friendship helped me through some challenging and dark times... and music was always the best escape. You were always the best songwriting critic and musician, with an uncanny ability to visualize how each note can make or break the true meaning of a song. Your creative spirit knew no boundaries, no limitations. You had a natural gift of raw, unadulterated talent, ever so intricately wavering between tempest poetic and nocturnal serendipity. I will always cherish our shared passion for music, poetry, and songwriting, and how much you shined whenever you had the freedom to express yourself. I wish you knew how much you were loved and so desperately needed in this world... and how Earth-shattering it has been for those who loved you most to lose you. While the beautiful, wondrous, and soulful song of your lifetime has unimaginably come to an end, the legacy of your music will always live on in all who knew and loved you best in this world. For many of us, this isn't goodbye... but rather, see you later, friend. Sincerely, Ammie-Marie Littke (Sprowls) --------- THE SPARK, for Jarod Like a wispy beacon in the night, a spark embers a solemn glow A delicate balance beholding power to become a flame Smoldering ever so gently beneath the ashen surface Impatiently eager to combust through its materialistic chains In the heat of a moment, it ignites into a roaring blaze Unleashing an ethereal inferno of abundant, sweltering lust Seizing its full potential, a torrid fury of uncontrolled chaos Granting warmth and comfort those who brave its touch As the moon ascends the night, it braces for the darkness Casting grand shadows, thriving when all hope seems lost Weathering through relentless storms and melodic winds Holding fast to its allies, shielding them from bitter frost At the dawn of a new day, it quells with the rising sun Wistfully fading in the morning dew and spring breeze Transforming into memory, transcending cosmic light Its blaze short and swift, but momentously wild and free The legacy of its warmth, an everlasting gift of gratitude Even though it wasn't meant to blaze for all but a night Forever cherished by its survivors, who will always remember How it boldly burned hot, and ever so bright
