Monday, May 2, 2011

What We Take for Granted



Last week the world lost an amazing young man. Adam was one of Erika's best friends throughout our years overseas, and the two of them shared many adventures along with other friends. They went on sports trips together, shared the joys and sorrows of wins and losses, were athletes of the year together and graduated together. Although they lost touch briefly as so many kids do after graduation, they had begun talking again and sharing experiences and trying to advise the other when one of them was down.

We do not know the exact circumstances of his death - just that he apparently took his own life last Wednesday. Erika doesn't understand - they had just talked the day before and she was planning a trip to go see him and he had promised her a ride in his Mustang. And now he is gone. His family is left behind to try to put together the pieces and manage the pain that only a parent can feel at the loss of a child taken too young and a brother can feel at the loss of his hero.

We take for granted that our children will be there, that a husband or a wife or a friend will be there - and then, with no warning, they can be taken away. Love those around you - give them a hug. Never take them for granted.

2 comments:

  1. Oh wow, my heart breaks for Erika, his family and the friends that loved him. I am so sorry

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  2. Thanks Justine - the hardest part is that no one understands why. He seemed like he was really looking forward to Erika's visit and then this.

    By the way, it looks like Emily is doing great. Of course, she lives in paradise - how fortunate! I do miss the beach. Glad to see all of you doing well.

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