Life. Always stranger than fiction, isn't it.

I worked as secretary to a pastor here in town for 2 1/2 years. That was seventeen years ago. I met some wonderful people while working there. My boss, John (the pastor), should be the prototype for all bosses. It was a joy working for him.

Two of the people I met while working there were Art and Mary Dora. Fantastic people! They are husband and wife, and have been together for like, forever! They have a beautiful daughter named Ceri. I swear that woman has an aura you can actually see! Ceri used to be married to Jay, and they have two sons, Jett and Ty. Ty was in "The Horse Whisperer" with Robert Redford. Yeah, he was our local celebrity for a long time. :) I always admired Ceri and Jay because after Ty was in that movie, Robert Redford approached them about Ty appearing in another of his films, but they said no because the movie was to be rated "R" and they didn't want Ty exposed to that stuff yet. He was still so young. So, to my knowledge, that was the extent of Ty's acting career. I don't really think it was something he wanted to do all that much, anyway. It was a fluke, really, that he even ended up in The Horse Whisperer.

Anyway .... Art and Mary Dora were Terry's Aunt and Uncle, and Ceri was his cousin. Terry's mother and Art are brother and sister. I remember very clearly how gracious, kind and loving Art, Mary Dora and Ceri were to all of us when Terry died. After all, we were the "ex" family, and most everyone else avoided us like the plague at the service. Isn't that sad? But not them. They were wonderful. But that's the kind of people they were -- all the time, to everyone.

I received a phone call today from my sister. One year ago today, Terry died. Today, Art died. It feels so strange. I keep thinking back to last year and how sweet they were to me -- to all of us. I remember feeling so appreciative of their kindness. And now, he's gone, too. Uncle and nephew .... the same day, one year apart. I hope I can do something to bring Mary Dora and Ceri the kind of love and comfort they brought us.

I think the mere fact that you reach out to them and offer your feelings and rememberance to them will be the greatest "gift" you can give them. Often, the simple things such as kindness and hearing YOUR thoughts, does more than any "physical" offering can ever do!

Thoughtfully shared by: amit at July 18, 2003 06:28 PM

they will find comfort in knowing you care, my friend. Yes, life is strange. One year to the day, huh? Please know I am sorry to hear of his passing. Something weird I'd like to share is the dates and days associated with my mum and sis in-law's deaths. Randall's mum died 4 months short of her 64th b'day. His sister, 4 months short of her 34th b'day. They both died on the 2nd of the month and were buried on the same date. The 6th. How strange is that??

Thoughtfully shared by: Debbie at July 18, 2003 06:38 PM

Life is so strange sometimes... I would offer a hand in friendship, and a shoulder to lean on. They will know you are there and they will appreciate it. (((((Leigh)))))
Love you.

Thoughtfully shared by: Beverly at July 18, 2003 07:44 PM

(((Leigh))) I am so sorry to hear of this very sad news, such a difficult thing on an already difficult day, my heart and prayers for all you.

Thoughtfully shared by: LillyAnne at July 18, 2003 10:04 PM