|
Joe,
I met you at dinner with the racers before a recent race in Homestead.
The night we had dinner I commented on my distaste for the sport
my son (Robert Fisher) has chosen. The reason for my feelings
were and still are the danger attached to the sport. I said it
was difficult for me to watch as my son sped away from the starting
line and into Turn 1. You shot back that it wasn't easy for you
either and that you considered each and every one of them as "your
kids."
Your words didn't quite register with me that night. The next
day as my son Robert left the garage area for his first race,
your words echoed in my
ears. It didn't make sense to me until that moment how much all
of the
riders mean to you. After all, this is your life and these kids
are a huge
part of it. Yes, you do share that same gut wrenching feeling
I get.
This weekend you lost one of "your kids." I read the words you
had to say following the loss. I know that there is a huge hole
in your heart right
now and I just want to let you know that my thoughts are with
you Joe.
My son shared his feelings with me about Jamie Bowman and told
me what a pleasurable and special young man he was. He too was
having a hard time with Jamies passing. Although Bob wasn't one
of Jamies close friends I can sense the "Family" atmosphere you
have helped to create in the Florida racing club, and I just want
you to know that you are instilling a sense of values in these
young mens lives that is very special.
I want to encourage you to continue being the man you are and
to continue supporting "your kids." They all need such a man
behind the scenes offering guidance and the friendship they feel
towards you. My heart is with you and all of your kids as they
look forward to their next event. There will be a touch of sadness
for everyone present with such a bright light having been extinguished.
But the show will go on and those taking part will remember Jamie
Bowman and Jeremy Steiner who also passed away last year.
During their short years here they both were able to enjoy life
on their own terms, doing what they loved. Life is a mysterious
journey and it's only true measure cannot be in terms of the amount
of time we are here. Life is only the blink of an eye in the
face of eternity. The true measure is of the heart and soul of
a man as he completes his journey. I know a part
Jamies spirit will always be with you Joe. I can also say with
confidence that part of your spirit will travel on with him.
Keep sharing that part of yourself with "your kids" Joe. They
need that
more than ever. Thank you for your work and the love you put
into it.
Godspeed Jamie Bowman indeed.
And God bless you.
Sincerely,
Bill Fisher
|