Folks, a good friend of mine is going through something horrible, having suddenly lost his wife.
I just found out this morning, and I really guess I’m still in shock over it myself. I’ve definitely not acted like myself today: over my lunch hour, I ran to Wal-Mart, and stalked up and down the computer equipment isle, muttering the occasional obscenity under my breath, and probably inadvertently scaring the hell out of the other patrons.
I don’t know why I went to Wal-Mart or what I thought I was looking for. Just the tricks that a mind in shock plays on itself to get through the day, I reckon.
Anyway, my friend’s name is Rick, and if ya’ll could think a kind thought or two his way, it’d mean a lot to me. His wife’s name was Mary Jane, and she was a kind, gentle soul.
They were the first family to befriend us when we had to move a few years ago. They are good people.
Alas, it is a not nearly uncommon enough situation… my dear friend’s funeral is day after tomorrow…
I curse in the aisles at WallyWorld too, but usually for different reasons…
May Rick and Gene and others in like circumstances find peace somewhere and not drown in their tears. Yet, tears do wash our souls, I think, and rinse away the sorrow of it all, eventually, leaving our memories bright and shining, and cleansing our way to get on with life in honor of our lost ones.
I just got back from Rick’s, we took a lot of food over there for him and his family, stuff that’s easy to eat and doesn’t require any preparation.
I can’t really go into details, but this is one of the most tragic things I’ve ever seen, just heartbreaking.
I remember the pain of losing my brother and then my dad, but I can’t imagine the kind of pain Rick is feeling. My mind shies away from even trying.
Again, thank you so much, both for your kind thoughts and wishes, and for giving me a place to articulate a little bit of this as well. Right now, that’s a bigger favor for me then you may guess.
James, I am so glad Rick has you. It makes such a difference to have friends who can empthize… even if you can only imagine the pain, it helps deflect a little of it. May he find peace.
I went to my friend’s funeral.. no… memorial service tonight… it was beautiful, … as sad as I am at the loss, I am so glad I knew her for the time we had… I hope your friend fares well.