I’m crying. I feel like dying. I want my Patrick. I want him there for my four beautiful children as they grow and mature into 3 young men and a young woman. I miss his voice. I miss his smell. The grief just drives me wild. I want to feel his strong, warm hands in mine.
Just as I was feeling so low, I went outside to get the mail. My neighbor Judy happened to be riding her bike by me at that very moment. I burst into tears, and she was there to comfort me at the perfect moment. She suggested looking into grief support groups for me and my children. I will do so. Thank you, Judy!
Oh Nancy, I’m so glad that Judy just happened to be there for you when you needed her. I think about you and your family daily and wish there was something that I could do. I often peek over the bushes to see if you’re out in the yard and maybe could just use a hug. Please know that I am here for you too.
Nancy,
Your story has made me cry more times than I want to admit.
Your children’s pain, Patrick’s classmates loss and the loss to the community…it is all so sad.
However, as I look at the pictures you have so graciously shared with all of us, I see one theme throughout ALL of them. Love. Yes, there is fun and food and sweat, but the one thing that is constant is love. It is all over his face!
The coming months and years will be painfull, but as your sorrow turns to hope (it will, I promise) I want you to remember one thing…his love.
Few people ever get to experience the type of love that was shared by you two. Hold on tightly to that, it will be the thing that will bring you a quiet, silent smile for many years to come.
May God Bless you and your kids and I hope His joy will help you keep your chin up.