Sometimes situations in life will force us to come to grips with the frailty of life, and of its value. Last night only two blocks from our home, a young man was brutally murdered on the front porch of his family's home. The details are unknown at the present time. We heard what we thought was the sound of firecrackers being set off in the neighborhood only to find out a short time later that a young man, 28 years old was shot dead on the front porch of his family's home. He grew up with our kids, and the event has stirred many emotions. It's a Parent's worst nightmare come true. And to make matters worse, today our Son and Daughter visited another friend, and co-worker who is lying in a hospital bed, apparently brain dead following the abuse of pain killers. As painful as it is for our Children, I believe it has reminded them of a life they once lived, and how fortunate they are to have survived such a dangerous lifestyle. They both openly talked about how these two incidents have impacted them. I'm glad they are talking about it. Thoughts and prayers to all involved.
Oh my Rick. It is hard enough when you do not know the parties involved but when it is on your own street and someone you know, the message is a lot louder. Your photo is a good one to convey your sentiments.
It's so difficult to come to terms with people who were once in your life; and are no longer there. These two poor souls are such examples of how life used to be; and how it is now.
Last year, I went to my 20 year class reunion and was the last to know that one of guys in my form/home group had passed away from a fishing accident a couple of years before. It made the news and everything - and he had the most common name as well! So, when I was told, it was an absolute shock. He and I were two out of the three eldest of our form/home group and our grade... sad to know he's not around anymore as he was the class clown and always made everyone laugh.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you, your kids and to those people who you know are related to the recently passed. Your kids shouldn't be losing people they know so young, especially those they hung around with as children themselves.
I hope his spirit is at peace, even if his death wasnt. I hope his journey home was swift and a great homecoming was had..
I hope his family, friends and the community can heal from this..
Oh, Rick...I'm so sorry to hear this news. Wow, I've gone from big smiles to tears in just one day's worth of catching up on your photos. Both of your stories are for sure every parent's worst nightmare. They and their families will be in my prayers. I'm so glad your kids are able to share their feelings with you, your wife and each other. It's alot to process all in one day. I'm sorry your Father's Day was tinged with such tragedy.
Oh, Rick, that's such sad news on a day that should be filled with the love of family gathered around. If anything good is to come of it, it draws your children closer as they hopefully realize how fortunate they are. My thoughts are with you.
Oh Rick, I am so saddened not only by these losses in human life, but how it must have put a wet blanket on your own Father's Day celebrations with your children around. It should have been the highlight of your week. Life is so short, and at times like this, we count on the love around us to guide us through. The one good thing, is that you were all together as a family as these tragedies unfolded, and that your children love each other and their parents enough to share their stories and grow from these tragedies. My wish for you is that they continue to grow closer as the next year unfolds. What a wake up call of the most horrible variety. That said.... your photo is a perfect capture for your day. And processing it upon that brick wall, and the brown tones, are apropos for this photo of your day. Well done.
So sorry to hear about this, Rick ... it really does have an impact on so many people. From family to friends to acquaintances. This kind of thing can truly change lives. Your photo and your comment are a reminder of the unpredictability of life. Thought provoking.
How sad. We seem to be hearing about these senseless killings & abuse of drugs more often. My prayers go out to these people. What a shock to happen so close to your home & for your kids to have known them. One never knows what is ahead for our kids.
It is sad enough when events like this make the news. Sadder still when it affects people we know. My heartfelt prayers are for all touched by this tragedy- that there would be healing in the future and suffering will cease. A wonderfully symbolic shot to go with your words.
Last year, I went to my 20 year class reunion and was the last to know that one of guys in my form/home group had passed away from a fishing accident a couple of years before. It made the news and everything - and he had the most common name as well! So, when I was told, it was an absolute shock. He and I were two out of the three eldest of our form/home group and our grade... sad to know he's not around anymore as he was the class clown and always made everyone laugh.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you, your kids and to those people who you know are related to the recently passed. Your kids shouldn't be losing people they know so young, especially those they hung around with as children themselves.
I hope his family, friends and the community can heal from this..