Walking through the ancient forests of the Upper Peninsula has always been a serene experience for me. Deep in the woods there are only the sounds of nature – and I also realize that I am walking on land that has probably not been changed for hundreds, if not thousands, of years – long before the U.S. became a country. I am walking on land that rightfully belongs to the Native Americans, and I feel the connection with these true forebears deeply.

I am grateful to have known Rhett W. Butler – both in working for him and then in being a friend. He was one of those people who are “larger than life,” humble, and touched everyone who knew him. I miss him dearly.