Elaina wrote this beautiful poem that I keep real close to my heart. I broke down and cried when I read it because it hit so close to home. Thanks Elaina, uncle Ricki loves you...

My Uncle, My brother

Out there on the mat he goes, to our feet he rose. He used to live a life of crime but now he is a hero of mine.

My uncle made some bad choices way back then. My grandma was upset because he did it again, and again.

My mom tried to save him but her priority was to her kids. The life my mom created was to include him but he was no where around.

My uncle came home to get a degree. He joined wrestling so the family could see. He succeeded in the love he left behind out there on the mat, before the crime.

Written by your niece and your sister for a school project.
February 2008
Tina and Elayna