2013 has been a tough one for many families in Fremont County...too many unexpected deaths of folks way to young to go be with God. I know He has a plan and we aren't to know that plan, but sometimes it's tough to just deal with things.
One of my very best friends lost her brother early in the year. Her parents are like parents to me and watching them cope with Todd's passing was absolutely heart wrenching. Tim reminds me so much of my dad, Bob...stoic, strong, and unflappable (well...mostly unflappable). The pain in his face in the days following Todd's death was so hard to see...a hand on his shoulder or a hug didn't seem like enough but I was at a total loss to help him. Rosie and Tara and the girls were easier to help...tears and even some laughter eased a little of the pain.
Not long after Todd's passing, I was in San Diego for the NASB meeting and received a phone call from my mom...Tim & Rosie's house had burned to the ground. Once again, that helpless feeling. I'm 1,500+ miles away and can't help at all.
The Central Wyoming College family of employees has lost two of it's own this year as well...Danielle lost her courageous battle with cancer this spring. It's so odd to walk by that office and not see her there. For nearly 7 years, we worked just 50 feet from each other and her smile never failed to brighten the day.
Just this weekend, I got a phone call from my friend Susan telling me that our just retired co-worker Judy had been killed in a head-on collision while on her way to see her brother. You just don't know when your time is up. Judy is at home with her beloved Jim but those of us left here are just bewildered an reeling a bit.
One of our local young mom's has been battling brain cancer for several years and lost her fight last week. Not only is her family dealing with this loss, her father passed away 3 days later. I can't even imagine how they will find the strength to keep moving forward. It's deep inside where that strength comes from but sometimes, it's really hard to dig deep enough to find it.
Today at work, I saw several deputies and an ambulance racing west of town. I knew something terrible had happened and you always hope it's just "over-reaction" but deep in your heart, you know differently. One of the gruffest and yet most kind-hearted ladies I know passed away in her field today while out irrigating. Life happens so fast...you just never know where it will lead when you get out of bed in the morning.
Be sure to tell those you love how much you love them each and every time you can. You can never say it enough. To all my friends and family...please never doubt how much I love and appreciate you! You enrich my world beyond measure.
