This morning I had planned a much different post but in light of some local news I have decided to change my focus today.
I apologize for the serious sad nature of this post with some many still celebrating racing success from this past weekend however, I awoke this morning to news that a family friend a 21 year old girl had taken her life.
This young lady had been very close with my oldest son. She was a bright cheery beautiful faith filled young woman when they spent time together. Since my son returned home from the Army they had talked and spent time together again. I was glad to see that they were able to continue their friendship after leaving high school and all it's pettiness behind them. My son didn't say that there was anything out of the ordinary going on with her or that she had shared anything troubling.
As I go about my day today as I am forced to do, I keep thinking about the things my own children tell me without saying anything...and the times I may not listen closely enough.
Please remember that your children only know life to the depth and length they've lived it. When they say things are so important to them don't dismiss it as childish or unimportant. To them, to their experience whatever they are feeling is the greatest strongest thing they have ever known.
Often I'm sure there are no signs of trouble, no tell-tale change in behavior to miss but sometimes there is nothing to say just time to be shared listening when other seemingly important matters need to wait. I would never have thought this would happen to this young lady and that reminds me that I have a house full of children that I can't imagine it would happen to either.
Starting today I will be saying a lot less and listening a lot more.
If you are inclined please pray for this Bedford family as they attempt to deal with this tragedy.
EDITED to add: Another local fatality. The husband of a high school classmate and friend was killed when he lost control of his Cannondale bike and was struck by a vehicle. The driver and passenger of the vehicle were not injured.
Living in a rural close knit area this news hits especially hard. Your prayers and thoughts are appreciated.
EDITED to add: Another local fatality. The husband of a high school classmate and friend was killed when he lost control of his Cannondale bike and was struck by a vehicle. The driver and passenger of the vehicle were not injured.
Living in a rural close knit area this news hits especially hard. Your prayers and thoughts are appreciated.
I'm so sorry Shelly. How tragic and sad.
ReplyDeleteWe experienced this as a family last June and it still is very difficult for me to wrap my brain around. It did open up many conversations with my children about suicide, choices and the love that is eternal with our family. There is NOTHING that we can not handle together. I will keep this family in my thoughts. Parents should not bury a child. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts also. Peace to you, my friend. Today you run, for those who cannot.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry Shelly. I really hate these stories--they are just so heartbreaking and you wish you could go back and tell the girl that things really will work out. It's so hard from a young person's perspective to know that. I'll say a prayer for her and her family.
ReplyDeleteSorry about this - it is always so hard to understand! Your words hit home for me - take a few more minutes being present!
ReplyDeleteWhat a heartbreaking story. I'll say a prayer for her and her family tonight.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts and prayers are with the Beford family and with your son. I am sure this is equally hard for him to deal with.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for sharing this post as we all need reminders to stop and listen to our loved ones....young and old. In fact, you have inspired me to reach out and say Hello to my older sister as we don't talk as much as I do with my younger sister and mom.
I'm so sorry. Her family, and yours, will be in my thoughts today.
ReplyDeleteThis is so sad. I am so sorry for your son's loss and yours. This has to be so hard on him. I am reading this book called "13 reasons why" and it is about a girl who makes the same fatale decision. As I read this I think about my own kids and I agree with all that you wrote. So important to be PRESENT.
ReplyDeleteThis makes me sad, Shelly. And you're right; as adults, we have to remember to listen more and speak less - to everyone, young and old.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are with your family and theirs.
So sorry, in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteThat's so, so sad. And frightening for a parent of teenagers and young adults. Sometimes we just don't know how deep their pain is and how desperate they are.
ReplyDeletethese kinds of things are always so very hard. i'll be praying for everyone
ReplyDeleteOh gosh, I am so sorry for these tragic losses in your community. My heart goes out to the families and friends. :(
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing. I'm listening. A lot to think about here.
ReplyDeleteThis is heavy stuff. I wish the family peace during what will ultimately be the toughest of their lives.
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