There are so many coaches that have had amazing careers in their specified sports, coaches like Vince Lambardi, John Wooden, Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K), and the list goes on and on. These coaches all had a great "Run", and now they are in their respective Hall of Fames. One might ask how these coaches got to partake in this famous honor. Well, I am sure they all had their ups and downs, but they were determined to get through the adversity and enjoyed the fun times.
Although I have talked about famous coaches, I would like to write about one "Coach" in particular that is not as famous, Coach Paul Michael Gilmore. If you are wondering why I am calling Paul a coach, well it is because "Coach" is a common nickname around here. We just call everyone coach, that is how we greet each other.
So, the reason why I am posting this is because my roommate and best friend graduates from Texas State. Since he is leaving for the real world, I couldn't help but wonder what life would be like next semester. For all of those people that don't really know much about Paul and I, let me give you a break down of our relationship. Paul and I met in the 8th grade at a church retreat when my brother, Chris, was an intern. Chris and a group of youth were walking around talking about pick up lines. Yeah, I know, probably not church material, but that is where the journey started. It wasn't too long after that that him and I became good friends. Hanging out every sunday during sunday school, and even the occasional sleep over. However, it was in 10th grade that we became best friends when we went on a mission trip to Honduras. I have heard many people say that going on a mission trip brings people together... Well, imagine 5 mission trips, a multitude of volunteer opportunities, and living with each other for two years can do. That is a pretty close bond.
When we were in the college community at Houston's First Baptist Church, everyone knew that we were always together. It would seem in ways that were a pair. It was always, "Paul and Shawn"and there were even times when people called us the others name, even though him and I don't look that similar.
Paul has been such a great friend to me. He has always been there through the times, good and bad. He is such a man of God and he sets a great example, not only for me but for everyone else. I could always depend on him for telling me the truth, even when it hurt. He also has influenced me in so many ways. Just from being around him so much, I have learned the importance of encouraging others and having strong character. That is one of his qualities that I like. What you see is what you get, and you get a lot... And that is not a fat joke. You will always laugh, smile, and feel welcomed when he is around. He is just that type of guy, laid back. Another thing that I love about Paul is his servant heart. He is always wanting and willing to help anyone in need, and that is another thing that I have learned from him. There is a lot more things that I could say, but I don't want to make this post a novel.
All in all, Paul and I have had a great "Run". We have had a lot of great times, and I would never trade our relationship or the time we have spent together for anything else in the world. So, coach, we had a great run and I appreciate your friendship. Congratulations and I know that God will use you in great ways. Much love bro and if there was a "Best Friend Hall of Fame" you would be there on the first ballot!
