On Saturday January 2, 2015 Hawaii Aloha (a boat with YWAM Ships) capsized off the Kona coast. 5 crew were on the vessel, four of them made it to shore, but my friend and co-worker Aaron did not survive. Who is Aaron? Below is a quote from his sisters blog that shares beautifully who he is.

“Aaron’s impact on us is huge. That fearlessness, living everyday to the fullest, loving those around you, and I mean ANYONE around you. Not just the people you already care about… He shows us that it’s never too late to change. He may have only lived 24 years, but he lived, ferociously, through more struggle, triumph, transformation, rejection, love, loss and adventure than most people ever will. His story and how he spent these last few years will have an everlasting affect on anyone that knew him, especially my family. We knew he was special, and he was finally so happy. If there was ever a time to go out, it’s at the top of your game, when you’re at peace with everything, and completely accepting of the fact that you have no control. You just need to let go. Four people survived and Aaron may not have, that’s exactly how he would’ve wanted it. If he did go, he went out smiling and euphoric knowing that he was not alone.”

I was thinking about my life the other day. Usually when I see a 24 year old I think “thank God I don’t have to go back there.” With Aaron it was different though. I would see his life and think “man, I would love a do over, his life inspires me to charge hard.” This my friends is what we all should aspire to, being that person that moves others and challenges others to live more fully.

Aaron was someone who loved God and loved others (the two greatest commandments). He loved others with all he had. This is why he worked with YWAM Ships, because he wanted to serve the isolated communities in the Pacific Islands. He was someone who did justice, who cared enough to go, and ultimately gave his life for what he believed. I pray that his life moves my life to be lived more fully and intentionally.

Thank you Aaron, you are missed my friend.

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