Speramus Meliora; Resurget Cineribus

The hardest part about packing up all my things is deciding what to take with the very limited space I have available. Of course my laptop will go, loaded with movies and music for much valued but rarely available downtime. But the hardest part so far has been deciding what other items to take along. I have selected photos of family and friends. A coaster from my favorite restaurant back in Detroit. I also have an american flag and favorite t-shirt that will make the trip. All of this was carefully planned...as was the line of thought that lead to my first tattoo.

When I moved to Detroit in 2005 I had big plans. Many of those failed. However there were some great successes along the way. I met some tremendous friends, received a phenomenal education, and learned life lessons that impact my life daily. The motto of Detroit is well known--it appears on T-Shirts, car commercials, and bumper stickers..."Speramus Meliora; Resurget Cineribus." It was adopted after the city burned several times after it's founding in 1701. It's meaning: "We hope for better things; It will rise from the ashes." The motto proved to be again a popular battle cry after the city was crippled by riots in 1943 and 1967.

Detroit is a gritty city. It has faced adversity that only the residence of a handful of other cities could comprehend. There is nothing fancy about Detroit, but it has a sweet swagger. It has a beat that doesn't stop because of bad press, bad roads, or bad leadership. Detroit is amazing because of the people. As a white man I was welcomed into my predominantly black neighborhood with open arms--something that in the past would seem to be unheard of as race issues crippled the city on more than one occasion.

I frequented places like Eastern Market, Jumbo's Bar, Union Street, DIA, Belle Isle, Pappy's Pub and more. It was home...I still call it home because I'll be back. When this little business trip is over, you can be sure I'll be back. Nowhere in the world is there a city of such unparalleled contrast. It really is a beautiful thing that you have to see to understand.

Although I left Detroit about 18 months ago my heart is still there. The lessons I learned and people I met have left an indelible mark on me. I look forward to getting back there soon to be a part of the movement that can only be understood from the inside. When I thought about what would be the best way for me to take a little piece of home with me to Afghanistan, or wherever I may go in the world...I will remember to hope for better things and rise from the ashes.

Until next time...

Chris