We gotta admit it: when Joel Lindpere announced that his goal was to visit all 50 states, we labeled him a tourist. That was three years ago.

In history of Metro -- no, in history of MLS -- there have been very few players who deserve the tourist label less than than Lindpere.

Always fighting, never relenting, giving his all game after game, that was Lindpere. Going into the heart of battle, taking knocks from all comers, coming out the better of it, that was Lindpere. Milestone goals, that was Lindpere.

The first goal at Red Bull Arena -- twice! -- against Santos and then Chicago. The playoff winners in San Jose and Dallas. The winner -- how can we forget! -- over PSG in the Emirates Cup.

And yet, Lindpere was so much more. For very few players have come to this club from such obscurity -- Estonia! Tromso, above the Arctic Circle! -- and endeared themselves to the fan base that quickly. And, yes, he cared. Cared more than most, if not all.

Throughout the years, this franchise has made a habit of jettisoning players who have done well here, failing to establish any type of continuity that is needed to exceed in MLS. There are numerous things that we despise about today's trade -- no, not trade, salary dump -- but none more than losing Lindpere, the player and the human being.

So long, Joel. You will be missed.

We hope your 50-state trip reaches a happy conclusion.