Debbie Shankle
My big brother, Bruce, was a charismatic soul. There's not one day since his passing that I don't think of him. His personality would light up any room. When he walked in you knew he was there. I remember our high school days. They were filled with many friends who came over. We shot pool in our rec room and swam in the outdoor pool. Those years were wonder years to me. They were filled with so much fun and laughter, before you arrive into adulthood where fullness of responsibilities lie. One thing that stands out in my mind the most is when Bruce got his first drum-set. He taught himself to play. I also learned to play at the tender age of nine while watching him and playing by the stereo. Growing up in Nashville, our father was a general contractor who built all of the homes we lived in. He was a wonderful provider. One of the more large and beautiful homes he built was close to the lake. We enjoyed our privacy on this large scenic view of land that surrounded us. Our downstairs rec room was where we played drums alongside those old vinyl records. Bruce was quite the social magnet. We gathered there with many friends...(albeit, sometimes in mischievous pleasure). Bruce's influence as a free-spirited guy was very propelling to a 14 yr. old sister. I walked in places where certain propellings should never take root. Some roots must be plucked up. On a more affirming note, I will always remember and appreciate his way of keeping up with the latest music trends. I learned a lot in the way of a music heritage from him. My love of music will forever be tied in with warm memories of our sharing times together. I often thought about how he (to me) was as personable as Elvis, or Paul McCartney. He could have achieved anything he set his mind to. Bruce had his apparent failings, but those failings fell under the blood in later years. The blood of Jesus and His saving grace.
After we both accepted the Lord, for certain those "pleasurable and mischievous days" melted away and were trodden underfoot. Our trampling of them helps me realize that life's hidden mysteries are the most important things of all to remember. Now Bruce is in Heaven with Jesus and I will see him again. For this, I can hardly wait! The gathering of our friends and loved ones will be the grandest forever days! Where all of our failings and disappointments of the past will completely pass away. Bruce, this memorabilia is to you, my brother..TAKE FLIGHT..TAKE FLIGHT, again and again. That's just your style. Hold me a place bro and I'll see you soon.
With love,
Your Sister, Debbie