VTFU

My friend Joe - a runner, boxer, writer, animal lover, advice giver, nurturer, dreadlock wearer, beer drinker, and all-around wonderful person - died in his sleep sometime Thursday night or Friday morning. He was 37.

Known as Voodoojunkie on kickrunners.com, Joe was one of the kindest, gentlest, most thoughtful people I knew. I had the great fortune to meet him at a few races and spend time with him. He was always quick to lend support to new runners or anyone, regardless of skill or experience, who needed a mental boost. He added countless words and expressions to our group's lexicon: by the Gods, sweating like 10 whole men, bio-solid, I reckon, and, especially, Cowboy the F Up (or CTFU for short).

Since Monday when word spread about his passing, it's become VTFU -- Voo the F Up.

It's a reminder to pull up your bootstraps when times are tough. It's a motivational tool to get you through a tough run or hard day or difficult time in your life.

It's now a mantra.

Joe was taken from us much, much too soon. His impact, however, will be felt for years to come. At least three or four of my running friends give him full credit for their dedication to the sport. He was the one who reached out to them, made them feel welcome in our little cyber-group, and offered just the right words of encouragement to keep them from giving up.

We feel a huge loss. A hole that cannot possibly be filled. Our hearts are heavy, and our tears are plentiful.

But how lucky were we to have him in our lives for even a brief period?

Voo, I will miss you constantly, but I know you're smiling down on all of us from that big finish line in the sky. We'll meet again, my friend. When we do, I will be able to tell you in person how very much you have meant to me.

Rest in peace, sweet Voodoo.