Several years ago, I had the pleasure of becoming acquaintances with a black gentleman who maintained a beautiful attitude, who was respectful, and charismatic. At one point, he even came to work for me for a day tearing out old carpet. I remember working all day picking him up, tearing out the carpet, and then stopping by the grocery store for him while taking him back home after the job was complete. He was a hard worker too. He was a survivor indeed as when he was in between seasons at work and times were rough; he was always willing to work hard for his living. He was a "cool cat" as my grandpa used to remark about good folks. He always had a smile on his face and treated people with love and kindness. I can remember his infectious laughter and hugs well. He was just one of those souls that always made a room light up when he came in.

Yesterday, I heard a rumor that he was shot.... I prayed that the news was incorrect and not about him. Then, today, I found out he was actually killed..... found shot on East 116th Street near Buckeye and Shaker. My heart sunk. I never met his family or had the chance to see him recently....but his life and friendship have left imprints on even people like me who only knew him briefly.

I can still see his big smile, his bright eyes, and hear his happy laughter. I can recall him working like a 20 year old kid and later finding out he was almost 50 years old. I can recall when he rode a bicycle across town to visit mutual friends and later when he got a car running and how excited he was to have those wheels behind him.

Today, I'd like to remember his amazing spirit that he shared with others. Today, I'd like to remember the positive thoughts he shared, the smiles he shared, and the kindness he shared. I know he had a good heart.

So, today, I'd like to take a moment to respect the life of Albert Fletcher, 54, who was found dead on East 116th yesterday. "Fletch" was known by many. May God Bless his family and friends who share his loss. I pray that his good memories will remain with many and his good spirit will remain alive amongst the countless souls he touched here on earth.

Today, I'd simply like to take a moment to acknowledge "Fletch" for the person he was when I met him. May he rest in peace and may his killer be caught expeditiously. It's simply sad that so many are killing each other on our streets. I pray that they are held accountable.....