Independence Day was over a week ago, but the patriotic additions to the Joey and Cruz memorial draw attention. This suddenly sacred shrine has grown since I first noticed it in March. At that time, the first decorations and images were evidence of a tragic event. With some research, I connected this spot, and this tree to the accident in February that took the life of two young men, Joseph Lesky and his friend Cruz. Since then, and through my blogging, I’ve connected with the family and they have shared with me their memories of Joey and Cruz and their grief as they mourn their loss.
The flag, and the red, white, and blue trimmings caught my attention when we drove by yesterday. I stopped by this morning to take a closer look, and it was the two white crosses that drew my interest. The two wood crosses placed at the base of the tree earlier are still there. The new crosses are attached to the tree. Their painted white surfaces stand out against the bark of the tree trunk.
Written notes on these crosses really bring home the sadness and loss felt by friends and family.
This one is on Cruz’a cross: “Fly high Cruzito - HL.”
This quote is from Joey’s cross: “Love ya, miss you very much, Love Mom.”
I read these and can’t help but think about all the special people in my life. How easy it is to take these relationships for granted; to assume those special people will always be there. A cast ceramic medallion is also attached to the tree. It has an inscribed prayer that sums up my feeling today revisiting this sacred ground:
“Look for the Angels in your life. They are everywhere.”
3700 Block of Bay Area Boulevard, Clear Lake, Houston, Texas