It does happen. Sometimes lightning does strike twice... even three times.
Three weeks ago one of my student's older sister was killed when her car slid on an icy road and crashed. I didn't know the sister, but since I care for my student the loss had an impact on me.
Last week we lost a friend in our Shepherding Group (like a Sunday School class, but more of a family or community). He was just 43. Despite many years of sobriety, the years of substance abuse in his past just took its toll on his body. The loss was sudden and his smile and humor will be sorely missed.
This morning, another accident on an icy road. This time a younger sister of another student. My student was in the vehicle, but had minor injuries. His 14 year old sister has severe brain injury and we're not sure if she'll make it. (We pray for a miracle.)
Sometimes pain or sadness comes in waves. Though these weren't family members nor very close friends, I do get emotional. My first husband died when we were both 23, so I feel the impact of the permanence of death. I remember how grieving wasn't what I expected - full of ups and downs. I remember how it feels to see or hear something and think how you can't wait to tell... then remember they won't be there to hear.
Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not wallowing in gloom and despair! I am realistic about the struggles with pain and loss on this earth, but I have a Friend who walks with me and holds me at all times. I rejoice for my friend from church because he is no longer in pain. He "runs with the angels on streets made of gold.." (Mark Harris, "I Wish You Were Here") The song will be the basis of an art quilt I will make in his memory - a postcard from heaven.
This evening I used a technique from my Celebrate Your Creative Self workshop group online and created a response I call "Staving Off the Darkeness." (See my Heart Felt Art blog)My heart may feel down or "flattened" by events, but between my poor heart and the multiple "lightning strikes" Christ shields me. He has laid down His life for me and continues to love and protect me during life's storms.
2 comments:
Oh shucks: I think I lost my comment. Happy Birthday DeBee. I posted on LatestTrendCS what I felt by looking at your wonderful piece of art. You are truly an artist. That piece hanging in a gallery would be wonderful. I could feel your emotions in it not knowing what the exact circumstances were. But you captured a piece of you that will live forever in that piece. Again, Happy day of Birth. celebrate life. Post quilt when you complete it.
What a touching post. I was in education (high school teacher) and on my students was killed on the steps of her parents home after she got off the school bus by her boyfriend as their two year old looked out of the window and watched. It had quite an impact on me. Teachers have so much more to deal with than just the education of their students. I don't think people realize this. Your "heart felt" words are lovely as is your art. Pain and sadness make the joys in life so much sweeter. I will be back to visit soon.
Enjoy each day that you are blessed to share.
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