It’s not the end. It’s the beginning of the rest of our lives.

After four years at Saint Louis University, many memories stand out; many people stand out. Too many to name.

We all have recollections, fond events that will stay alive long after our time at SLU is done. And they are more than just sports memories. They are about the true meanings of our lives.

Over the last two years, I have been blessed with the opportunity to cover many events. I have had a chance to share my passion for writing with the entire University community, and for that I will always be grateful.

But it almost never happened. I nearly missed out on the chance to write for The University News. Here’s my story and, partially, Mike’s.

On the morning of Jan. 4, 2000 my pledge brother Mike Rieke died in a two-car accident near his home in Kansas City. This horrific event devastated everyone in Phi Kappa fraternity, as well as the many others who knew Mike.

He had the ability to light up a room with a mere smile. His charisma and enthusiasm for life and his ability to make people feel welcomed and loved was unparalled.

Mike was someone special-he was an enemy of no one. He was a friend to all. Above all, he embodied the way we all should embrace life.

Whether it was “laying” on his sofa playing PlayStation or taking a jog to the Arch, Mike always had a competive spirit. He was a natural athlete as well, having played for SLU’s baseball team his first two years.

After his passing, I tried to rationalize his death. But it didn’t add up. How could someone so full of life be taken from us?

A few of my fraternity brothers and I decided to eulogize Mike in a letter to the editor of The U News. We felt that the whole SLU community should understand the positive affect that he had on our everyday lives.

I volunteered to turn in the letter, and my life has never been quite the same.

While at The U News, I asked if they needed any help on the sports staff. I had always dreamed about covering sports, even before I could read. As a child I would wake up and open the sports page every morning, and I remained active with competitve sports throughout high school. Prior to Mike’s death, however, I never had had the urge to approach The U News. This sad circumstance seemed to be a perfect chance.

“Sorry”, the editor told me, “I don’t think we need anyone.” Well, I thought, maybe it wasn’t meant to be. Luckily, my friend Lauren was in the room at the time.

Two hours later, Nick Weber, then the sports editor, walked in and under his breath said that he was swamped. Lauren gave him my number, and he called me later that day. That was the beginning.

I watched from press row as the men’s basketball team played at Savvis Center.

I had the chance to cover the men’s soccer team, many of whom are my friends, while still trying to write an unbiased story. I found club rugby exciting and fun.

Since that day, I have been able to live out a dream. And I would give it all up; I would give it all back if Mike could be here today.