Again I must say thank you for all your comments on my last two shots. Your genuine thoughtfulness means so much to me. We attended a lengthy (2.5 hr) emotional service today for our friend. This shot was taken a couple of years ago while he swam his favourite stroke, butterfly. My kids and their swim club friends handled themselves so well despite the difficult circumstances. We cried (a lot) but we also laughed and heard wonderful stories and watched a memorable slideshow. He was loved by many and will not be forgotten. I promise to lighten things up tomorrow!
Thank you for sharing your story! It's not easy talking about a tragedy like this, but it opens peoples eyes and makes them realize that this unfortunately happens a lot to young people. I think this is a fantastic picture of this wonderful young man!
this is a beautiful shot! I am sure you have shared it with his family as well. As hard as it is to endure these trials, times like these do bring people closer. don't worry if you are not up to something 'lighter' tomorrow. This is a good way to vent it
Kim, I am so sorry for your loss. What a shock for all of you. I facilitate grief groups for kids, so if you have concerns or questions about how your kids are handling things, don't hesitate to email me (ecartoun@gmail.com) and I can find some resources in your area. This is a gorgeous shot.
Grief is such a personal thing and there is no right and no wrong way to do it. You lighten things up when you are ready!! Like I said, it's those left behind that suffer the most.
This is an incredible photo of him and poignant capture!! FAV!
Such a wonderful tribute to a life cut so short!! There are no words to express the emotions for these circumstances, the loss, the grief, the anger, the confusion, the questions..... I am glad you celebrated his life....his memory will be with everyone forever.
My condolences on the loss of your friend. You've posted a wonderful tribute photo and your sharing may encourage people to talk about thoughts and feelings. We had the same thing happen in our state this week with two teenage soccer players and the importance of communication is being stressed. Hugs and prayers.
Such a heart-breaking image, in view of the recent day's events. The shot is gorgeous, the event is not. On a personal note, I have enjoyed your 365 contributions very much. I am sad to see you leave.... you have a lovely artistic eye, which has helped me very much. Thank you.
What a great photo of him doing something he obviously loved. I hope the service today helped everyone deal with the situation a little more. I must have been a terribly difficult day for you all.
A great image to remember your friend by. Memorial services can be such a help in uniting people in their grief and allowing them to draw strength from exchanging memories and comforting one another. It sounds very much as if the one for your friend did just that. I do hope so. xx
Wonderful action capture of this young man doing something he enjoyed, and likely the way your kids will want to remember their swim team member. My heart goes out to his family, his friends who will suffer missing him forever now.
Oh, silly me... I mis-read the meaning of "final shot" in light of your family's recent loss. Glad you are not departing this community - I would miss your contributions very much,
it's so sad when a young person with so much life ahead of them struggles so much they take their own life. My son volunteers with GBLT families and it's very sad how high their suicide rate is. Some times the person is bullied or rejected by their families but often we never know why.
Fav
This is an incredible photo of him and poignant capture!! FAV!