Perspective

It has been a long time since I've sat down and written on this site. 4 months actually. I used to equate not writing in my journal as meaning I was happy. Dare I admit, I've been in unchartered waters since my last posting in April. I'm happy! Why do I feel like I immediately need to type knock-on-wood.

NASCAR Livin,' which is my friend's reference to these random marvels that I reveal to only a select list of friends, has been neglected. I've been spending my spare time with my boyfriend. Typing that very word just made me feel like the character Rose from the movie In Her Shoes. Remember the scene when Rose (Toni Collette) tells her best friend Amy, whom is played by the actress best known for screaming in a water well in Silence of the Lambs. I'm off on a tangent, sorry, back to my original point. Remember the scene where she over-emphasizes the word boyfriend and keeps referencing her real-life, adult boyfriend? That's what typing that word makes me think of. Sounds so cliche, but I'm fearful I have turned into one of those girls that would rather just hang out at home with her boyfriend, rather then force a contrived "girls' night out." My, my how things have changed.

I've been enjoying every day, embracing my little random city, and trying not to sweat the small stuff. I keep thanking my lucky stars too that he didn't kick me to the curb when I was dragging my feet in the beginning of our relationship (hence my last entry).

On a more serious note, and why I felt most compelled to write tonight... I had a pretty somber day at work today, as a tragedy has hit close to home. I wanted to express my gratitude for the many blessings in my life and acknowledge a family in need right now.

The Senior VP in my old department lost his youngest son this past weekend. He was only 15 years old. He was seriously injured in a football game. He suffered from a head injury, and sadly passed peacefully on Sunday. It is absolutely heart-breaking, and it couldn’t have happened to a nicer family. My heart goes out to this man and his family. He is such a genuine, inspiring leader, and family-man, whom challenges his employees both professionally and personally. He stresses the importance of work, life, balance and implements it himself. He has always amazed me by his approachable, down-to-earth nature, even at such a high level. I feel so saddened and sorry for his family. This is such a devastating loss. It sounds like his son Matt was a true angel while living on earth during his short time. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this time. This one just hits close to home and truly puts things in perspective.

I pray God helps them through this trying time, and helps give them the strength to prevail. Life is so very precious, each and every day. It just reiterates the importance of letting your loved ones know how much they mean to you. I know God has a plan for each and every one of us, but it's Matt's loved ones left behind that I am worried about. All those young high school kids, football players, coaches, teachers, his family, the community. Many lives have been forever changed.

Dear Lord, please take care of Matt's family in this time of sorrow and sadness. Please welcome Matt with open arms into heaven.