In 2005 Andy went to Hawaii with us. I have a picture of him giving me a big hug in front of this beautiful waterfall on the Big Island. He's not in this picture taken by me in October, 2011.
I miss him, but either I have put up a wall, blocked out that part of my life, or I feel at peace. I'm not really sure, I just know I don't think about him in prison too often. He is in every prayer I utter, but I don't cry very much anymore because he is serving time. Our family was given a neat gift this Christmas to help bring him back into my thoughts. We were getting ready to sit down for Christmas dinner which was prepared and served a few days before Christmas because someone was flying out the next day. The doorbell rang. I answered the door, but for a few seconds didn't recognize the young man standing on the steps. Then I realized it was a kid Andy hung out with in middle school and years after. Of course I invited him to dinner which he accepted. We had a delightful Christmas dinner laughing and reminiscing about him and Andy. This young man lives in Colorado and was visiting his family.
After Todd left I thought to myself, what are the chances of this happening? Was he led by the spirit to visit us at that time on this very day? I believe he was because of the sweet thoughts and memories that were generated in my heart of my youngest son. I am very grateful.
your posts brought tears to my eyes. the andy i remember was the rambunctious, smiling tween. he was a good kid. i'm sorry for your trials. i understand your grief and am impressed by your hope. the atonement is a very powerful thing and thank goodness for it.
ReplyDeletemy brother and sister have had similar experiences in their lives - drugs, alcohol, jail, near death experiences caused by their stupidity. but their growth is amazing. my sister just welcomed home her oldest from a honorably served mission. my brother is so close to being sealed to his family.
thanks for sharing.