Downcast and heavy hearted, I am processing some shocking information..
I drove to work Monday morning, knowing that the roads were slippery on account of new snow, but I took my time. I arrived to work twenty minutes late, which is very unusual for me, but they allow a "soft start" on days with heavy snow. That means we are allowed to take our time to get in safely, and we can make up the time later..
The snow was heavy and the streets were slushy, but there was beauty all around. In the evening, I had to pull over a few times to set up a tripod and take pictures..
Today I learned that yesterday morning's snow took the life of a friend of mine. He was a Chicago Police sergeant, responding to a burglary in the early morning..
http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/02/accident-closes-southbound-lanes-of-lake-shore.html
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He was a fellow home schooler... that's how I knew him. He worked hard to keep people safe, and today he is safe in the presence of Christ. Still, I find myself weeping... it was too soon. It hurts to know he's gone. I can't even imagine how his wife and kids feel.
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All of the sudden, I find myself wishing yesterday's snow would just melt. It is not pretty to me any more. Instead, I want rain. Lots of rain to rinse these present landscapes, refresh my heart, and hide the tears. Please... let it rain.
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17 comments:
Craver, I am so so so sorry for your loss, this is very sad. You, your friend and his family are in my thoughts and my heart.
sorry for the loss of your friend..will keep his family and you up in prayer..good to know that he knew Christ and is up there having a party!
Its always sad to lose a dear friend, I find the best way is to think of all the happy times you had together, and celebrate his life.
As for the snow, I think we have had the worst winter for about 45 years.
I was looking for additional info online on Al's accident and found your blog. My husband and I live in the Seattle area but knew Al as the assistant pastor of the church we attended in Chicago for years. We kept in touch for some time after our move, so we were aware he had become a policeman. We were so shocked to learn of his accident yesterday; he was a wonderful person. I have been requesting prayer for Elaine and their three daughters. God bless!
I appreciate your kindness, Leeloo.
Praying is good, Mr. Dave. "We do not grieve as those without hope."
This was a life worth celebrating, Imac.
Thank you for stopping by, Teri. We moved out of Chicago (to Bolingbrook) eight years ago, but kept in touch. My wife and Elaine correspond by email every now and then. I got a chance to see them last Thanksgiving. I don't remember if I ever met the older daughters.
Craver, I'm sorry for this loss to humankind yet know Alan has gone to a beautiful place. Although the rain may wash away the snow, never wash away this memory and let the snow give remind you of this decent man. My prayers go out to his friends and family. Bless you!
I am so sorry, Craver ,for the loss of your friend. I heard about him on the news, and was glad to hear that he was a great man of faith, but sad to hear of his passing. I didn't know until today that you knew him. Again, I am sorry for your loss and may God comfort you and give you peace even in the midst of this difficult time. And I don't like snow either except on Christmas!
My thoughts are with you and with Mr Haymaker's family. What a sad thing to happen. I read the newspaper article that you linked to, and Mr H was well thought of, and respected by everyone. I am so sorry to hear of the tragic loss of a good Christian and a good cop.
I can't imagine how heavy the sorrow is for his wife and daughters. Excruciating. And yet he is a son of the Lord.
I shall pray for his family.
I must say that the article was a blessed testimony to our Savior and Lord.
Words are so inept at times like these.
It was good that you shared this tragedy Craver. It speaks volumes of truth.
"...weep with those who weep."
I don't know if can be said better than Sandman put it.....words are inept. I know this from a sons perspective. May God grant his family much grace in this. May it be so for his friends and may God receive the glory due His name.
My heart cries with you my friend. How sad that things like this happen but sometimes it is not for us to question why. My prayers are with you, his wife and family.
I just don't know what to say mate, except that I'm deeply touched and sorry for your loss....
Thoughtful words, Gaelyn. He will not be forgotten.
I guess it was in the news on Monday Rachel Grace, but I did not hear about it until my wife notified me Tuesday. Christmas snow is awe inspiring.
Yes Shammy. And although I respect the badge, I believe this is a case where he had earned more respect as the man behind the badge. The testimony of his elderly neighbor touched me, but it did not surprise me.
Thanks for praying, Sandman. I'm sure the family can use it right now.
I appreciate your heart's sentiment in this Greg. His youngest daughter is near the age of my own youngest daughter. I'm sure his wife has imagined and dreaded what it would be like if an officer showed up at her door one day to deliver this kind of news. Absolutely heart-wrenching. And yet, as you say, may God receive the glory due His name. I believe He will. Amen.
Good point, Joan. We could just as well wrestle with the philosophical implications of "why not?" Unless there is clearly a reason and an answer, it is better to comfort the grieving by being there with them, and sharing their tears.
Very kind of you Chris. Thank you.
i am so sorry to hear it. how quickly such tragedy changes our perspective. may you and his other friends and family find the comfort you need at this time.
Craver: So sorry for your loss, it seems so much harder when people are in the prime of there life. He was lost doing the service he loved.
I am sorry for your loss and that I never knew Sgt. Haymaker. If we know who he knows we can look forward to spending eternity with him. His live is an inspiration for each of us to be a haymaker. http://wp.me/pMf6W-8D
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