Goodbye Mr. Cowley

“Some days there won't be a song in your heart. Sing anyway.”

- Emory Austin

Yesterday, I drove to my hometown to say goodbye and celebrate a life of a very special person. It was surreal sitting in a multipurpose that I have not been in probably 16 years or so. To revisit a very exciting and important time in my life and at the same time saying goodbye to a person that was very prominent in that period. I was fortunate to know him by different names; 1) Coach Cowley - my 7th grade basketball coach, 2) Mr. Cowley - my art teacher for 3 years, and 3) Dan - a family friend.

Dan was a great person, teacher, and coach. A person who showed a passion for creating, compassion for teaching and coaching, and joy for life. It was evident in life and in the pictures shown at the Celebration of Life that he had a great relationship with his son and  so much love for his wife. People say pictures can be deceiving but not when the joy is so obvious. True joy is hard to fake.

Someone mentioned this yesterday and truly hit it on point. He did not treat us as kids, but as people. This is a very important thing during the teenage years. Mr. Cowley would give my younger brother and I a ride to school during my 9th grade year... He knew me during some of my moodiest years and he was always full of patience. He would offer a laugh when that was what I needed and an ear when I really just needed to be heard.

It is sad that it took his passing to remind me of all the things he taught me during those formidable years. Even so, it was a very much needed reminder. It is amazing how much one person can teach you if you are just willing to pay attention and be open to learning.

After the celebration, I was able to catch up with some of my other favorite teachers from Jr. High. I was amazed how much some had changed and how a few who looked exactly the same. I noticed that if I were to name my favorite teachers there (Mr. Cowley included) they all had similar traits and outlook on life. They were kind, easy-going, and funny. They took learning and life seriously but not so seriously that they did not enjoy it. Their humor and joy was infectious.

I am very glad to have know Dan, to witness his love for his wife and son, and to have the memories of a great coach and art teacher. To have the privileged of being one of his students who heard on several occasions "Add more detail" to my drawing or painting, and one of his athletes who had to run lines for talking too much during practice learning the importance of focus. Along with the important lessons and instructions, I remember the laughs and the high fives after a great shot or play.
Goodbye Coach. Go red!


"Make every Day your Masterpiece" - Dan Cowley

“Life is a first impression. You get one shot at it. Make it everlasting.” 
― J.R. Rim

"Live Simply. Dream Big. Be Grateful. Give Love. Laugh Lots. - unknown.


~ Love, Hugs &; Kisses ~ The B Family