One More One year ago today, our world as we knew it began to unravel. Jared came home from school "a little yellow" and the nightmare began... None of us were prepared for the outcome nine days later. In an instant everything was changed to the new normal that our lives have become. Despair and heartache that is indescribable. An extra empty seat at the dinner table that used to be set for four. No goofy text messages or phone calls at 2am. Shopping at Old Navy isn't fun anymore without the five minute rule. No more broken car door handles and knobs, because someone didn't realize his own strength. Gone are the lectures of why you don't put a mocha on your credit card and could you please get a haircut? Instead all we have are our precious, precious memories of Jared. His light was extinguished way too early, but he lives on through all of us who loved him. I find comfort in knowing that he touched so many lives! Yes, he packed a lot of living into 22 years. But as I watch Jared's friends achieve their hopes and dreams-I wish for more. The milestones that will never be: A college diploma. The first real job and his own car (Bruce and I had a list of all the things we were going to do to it!). To watch him walk down the aisle with the love of his life. Holding his children...all those moments lost. We've been cheated out of so many things, yet it's not with bitterness that I write, just sadness. My head knows he's in heaven and how lucky he is to be there and how fortunate God is to have him in his army of angels. I'm sure JJ's in charge of something! But my heart wishes for one more hug, one more smile and one more dinner of Tater Tot hot dish. As our time with CaringBridge comes to an end, I'd like to thank everyone for their kind words and stories. We will treasure them always. Thank you for your support. Thank you for everything. Wishing all of you a happy and safe Holiday season, may your blessings be many. Take care. Love, Char
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