sad news comes when you least expect it

out of the blue you get a call that stuns you
that is what happened this morning
a very distraught and shocked Becky called to say Scott's father passed away during the night
the news just hit hard
a call about death just stops you in your tracks
yes, we all know it will come one day
and yes, when we get the news of someone dying, shock usually takes over
and sometimes even regrets

I was just thinking of inviting Scott's parents for Thanksgiving
they have shared many Thanksgivings with us over the past several years - except last year due to some unforeseen things (always expect the unexpected, right?)

so I sit here feeling very sad.....with a multitude of thoughts going through my head
both my parents and a sister died during the month of October - you never forget the moments of loss
eventually the deep, numbing and at the same time horrible pain subsides, but you never forget those moments - never forget the time of year, or what you were doing when it happened

Nel was a nice guy - and always willing to help trim trees or move a stove
and I think of Scott and Trevor, his brother, and their mom
everyone is just stunned
how do you gather your wits at a time like this? I don't know
each of us handles it differently
what I do know is that my heart is breaking for Scott
you see, Scott and his dad were best friends - total pals
I always knew that if I were to get this news, that Scott would suffer terribly
how can anybody be tough at a time like this? no one with the deep love for the person such as Scott had for his dad
my heart is breaking for him and also for Becky (Nel always called her "Precious")
the days ahead will be painful and it will take a long time to get to a bit of normalcy - if that is what you can call it
I hope that anyone reading this will say a prayer or two for Nel - may he be at peace
and prayers for those he leaves behind

I am thankful I knew him and shared happy times with him on Thanksgiving, Christmastime, wedding celebrations and more
his spot will appear vacant now but he will never be forgotten
I hope that he will stay near to those he loved and that loved him

God Bless You, Nel