Posted by Lindy Williams on November 9, 1998:

I heard the words but they were drowned out by the first earthquake I had ever experienced. My knees kept bumping each other and I couldn't walk in a straight line. Each breath was one of fear, and pain, and loss; yet somewhere my foggy mind recognized the gift in that pain... at least I was alive to breathe. I don't know how many times I have reminded myself of that over the last couple of days: kid, you are alive, so breathe. Lord find me faithful. Out of the fog I heard a childish voice that transformed into a steady baritone. I saw in my mind's eye a young boy, a still life, and a handsome young man. One had flippers on while swimming in my pool... oh the joy of being so young. So carefree. Another in fatigues conquering obstacles on crutches and ditches with a machine gun. A man never too busy to stop and wish those around him well. A hand lifted in greeting was such a small thing to him, and it meant so much to me. Headphones offered out of kindness, and a certain three hour talk on a flight home, rides to the mall out of the goodness of his heart. A terrified plebe with a calm presence to talk to and rely on. I can't tell you how empty this place feels right now. The gray in the granite is so cold and feels so sad. I can't help but wonder if when I run by your house the Florida sun will still feel warm. I somehow think that the world will continue to turn and my life will continue to grow. At this moment in time though, my lungs still don't work and I can't focus past this moment. At a later time when I have come to peace with this turn of events, I will recognize the joy and the kindness that you taught all those you knew. It was such an integral part of who you were. Thank you. Thanks you. Thank you. Jamie, I miss you already. My eyes are dry but my stomach burns with an agony I don't know how to express. I remember once asking you to bring me some sunshine; ironic isn't it that simply being was sunshine enough. I don't know if I ever told you how much you meant to me... I guess I thought I had forever. So now that I know I don't have all the time I thought I had, as you look down from God's kingdom please hear me when I say "Thank you for the sunshine" Thank you for the gift you brought to me. Rest assured that you will not be forgotten.

admin