Well is has been 5+ years since I last saw Chris. Last week at my 20 year reunion weekend I sat in with the Marching band one last time. I am selling my last sax and retiring from music officially. While sitting in the stands with my wife (former Sallies Marching Band flag girl) I felt at peace about a lot of things. I thought of Chris and how he did truly impact my life. He was one of the only teachers at Sallies that saw my potential. He cared for me I know, and when I saw he right before he passed away I still felt his caring. He was the leader of the family I came to love in the band. He made me feel like I had a place in the world. If not for him things in my life would be so very different. I know I was a huge pain in his butt, but he reciprocated the pain to me too. I truly did miss seeing his face last week in those stands. I never would have thought he would not be a part of that band forever. He was a good man, a gentle man, and man that would take whatever time needed to help you. Although time has passed I still can hear him telling me that it will be ok. It is OK Mr. Arots, It was a struggle, but I came out just fine. Thank you for all you did. I just wish my son could have met you in the band this year.