By Zack Steele
If you have read my columns over the years, you know that I drift from the often banal world of eye care and speak on subjects that I find relevant at the time.
As I sit and write this column today, a group of young men and young women gather together right across the street from my office to say goodbye to a friend.
Over the last two years, I have helped out with the Husky TV broadcasts. I have gotten to know many of the coaches and players. They made me feel like a part of their group immediately.
When I first heard the news, I remembered Brock Bowman. He always, always had a smile on his face. He was respectful with every comment. Every question was always answered “Yes, sir,” “No, sir,” just like every one of the young men that puts on the uniform for Hewitt-Trussville. He was jubilant before games, but all business when the ball was teed up. I have come to expect that from a team coached by Hal Riddle. The kids are all class acts, just like their coaching staff.
When a community loses a bright, shining light like Brock Bowman, it is always hard to imagine how to live each day without that light. It may be a while before the world seems bright again.
When I look at the outpouring of support from the people of Trussville to the Bowman family, I am again overwhelmed at the inherent good in the people that live here. I am again reminded about what a wonderful place in which I live and raise my children.
To Brock’s teammates that grieve for him, I can tell you from experience that though this weighs on your hearts every minute, one day, maybe one or two or 20 years from now, you will think of him and smile. You may also think of him and shed a tear, maybe in the same moment. And both are OK.
Remember that you are the fortunate ones who got to shed blood, sweat and tears with Brock every day at practice and in games. Remember that, and then go play your butts off for No. 70.
And to Brock’s family, my family as well as scores of other families in our community, many of whom you have never met, will continue praying for you.
Dr. Zack Steele is a graduate of UAB’s School of Optometry. His practice, Trussville Vision Care, is located on Chalkville Road in downtown Trussville.