In May of 2024, I had the good fortune to meet Bill and Karin (pronounced Car-In) Stahl. It is during this time that the Stahl’s became comfortable enough to tell me that their beloved daughter, Kristina Stahl, took her life on September 11, 2002. From this I also learned that Karin had written a book, The Option, on the experience. I felt compelled to purchase and read the book.

Upon completing the book, twice, I was overwhelmed with emotion and felt I had to respond to them in some meaningful way. I had already written a song for my brother who passed away in 2024 from cancer at the young age of 57. I spoke to my daughter about re-working that song and recording it for the Stahl's in memory of their daughter Kristina. We decided the answer was an emphatic YES.

After 4 long months of reworking lyrics, new vocals and a new music production, we competed what we believed to be THE song. 

On October 2, 2025, Michelle and I presented the song to the Stahl's and the reaction was overwhelming for all of us. It was the one of the most beautiful things we have ever experienced in our lives.

And now, we want to share this song with you. The song tells the very common story of parents who do all the right things, but life decides something different for their child. Michelle and I hope this song provides a relational comfort and solace to all those who have experienced this tragedy or know someone who has. May all who have left this earth in sorrow, SHINE ON into tomorrow.

Michelle O'Donnell was born with a paint brush in one hand and song sheet in the other. Whenever we speak to Michelle, we are more than likely interrupting her humming a tune. Michelle enjoyed early guitar lessons and still enjoys picking up the instrument. Her enthusiasm for learning, whether it is the art form of drawing or her passion for singing, Michelle puts herself in the constant state of improvement. Michelle started at an early age story boarding cartoons moving on to her love of singing, especially harmonies.

What some may not know is that Michelle has the rare gift of perfect relative pitch. This means if a sequence of notes is played to her, she can repeat them accurately every time. I call her "one take Michelle." She has also developed her voice over the years with hundreds of hours spent practicing harmonies and complicated arrangements from Celine Dion and the like.

Michelle is also responsible for reworking lyrics on Second Chances, Give and Remembering as well as creating my album cover exposing her creative talents as an artist designer. 

Today Michelle enjoys a full-time occupation at the American School for the Deaf working with deaf, blind, and autistic children, some of whom are afflicted with all three conditions. Her love and patience with special needs children is a gift and her calling.

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