Was wandering through my YouTube likes and came across "Float" by Lynus. I tried to find a link to it on my computer (I'm watching it on my TV) and it appears it may be private.

It's another example of his talent and drive. Such a creative piece with some incredible camera angles and transitions. Though I knew him briefly, what was so clear was his talent behind the camera.

I didn't know him too well, but he really did make such an impression on me.

I was in a class with Lynus during the spring 2022 semester. He, Emmi, and I made a short film and spent a significant amount of time together. I remember during our last day of shooting the three of us made an impromptu trip to the liquor store, bought some drinks, and played darts in my living room.

The last time I saw him was when we stitched the film together in his dorm in late May. Every now and then I go back and watch that short film, and I tear up when I see him act in it and when I remember he’s the one behind the camera.

That was over four years ago, and though I only knew him for less than five months he still pops up in my memory. I feel so lucky that I got to know him, I hold immense sadness when I think about his raw talent, but I always appreciate that I was fortunate enough to hangout, laugh with him, and make a few memories along the way.

I’m not sure who’s reading this, but I hope it’s a family or a loved one and that you can share in the fond experiences I had with him.

Four years.

It’s hard to believe it’s been that long since Lynus passed. There is still so much I wish I could share with him—my victories, the hard times, the small moments I know he would’ve cared about. More than anything; I just want him to know how proud I am of him.

Lynus always has this deep concern for others. It wasn’t performative, it was who he is. He gave his love freely, and in doing so, he blessed the people around him. I never got to see the full picture of the man he is (finishing up highschool/ life and all that), but I saw his love and kindness left a mark on me that I’ll carry for the rest of my life.

There are no perfect words for grief, no clean way to wrap this kind of loss in comfort. I do however have this truth: Lynus was even more than we realized. His example, heart, gentleness, and strength continues to be a source for me of kindness and love in a world so set on tearing itself apart. I think it’ll keep guiding me and i pray it guides others as well. 

It still feels like yesterday. I miss him. I just wish he were here. I cared and loved the man too much to not want to hear of his stories and struggles. To let him know he had someone in his corner. Not that he needed it, but that he invited me along in his journey.  I have no special words or anything that can make things better, I just miss the man and hope his family is ok. 

Today I'm thinking of Lynus, Astrid, Asmund, Christian and Shelley and all their closest family and friends on this first year anniversary. 

We first met the Ericksons when all our kids were much younger. My family and I just got back from a special trip to the UK. While we were there, I remembered that the Ericksons took a special vacation to the UK too, years ago, and particularly enjoyed the adventure of riding the trains there as part of their journey. As we stepped off the train onto the platform of the pretty Victorian train station of York, I instantly thought of Lynus's fascination and enjoyment of trains when he was a young boy.

I'm sending love to you all, keeping you in prayer in moments of peace, and feeling the weight of heavy hearts shared together today.