Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Tragedy

Alex and I own a paint-your-own ceramics shop - the kind that families visit at the holidays to make hand print plates and ornaments. Most of our clients are families with young children. They come and go and we see but a snapshot of their lives. But some families return again and again, year after year. While the children paint, we catch up with the parents. If older children are still working we entertain the younger ones. We look forward to their visits and they work their way into our hearts.

One such family has been coming into our shop on a regular basis for at least 5 years. Nik, the youngest child, was a toddler when we first met him. He was full of energy, engaging, and sweet. His older sisters, Katarina and Rebekka, have always been full of questions, very frank and sure of themselves. This family is something special. We always have been excited to see them come through the door, looked forward to hearing about the next year in school, the family trips, and all their adventures.

Last night, I learned that Nik had been killed in a horrible freak accident. He was seven years old. Their last visit to the shop was only 2 weeks ago. I cannot imagine the grief of this family. I pray that the light that I have always seen in the girls' eyes does not disappear. The family may have no idea that they have been such a joy in my life. They would probably be shocked to learn that I burst into tears at the news of their loss. Today I am praying that they will find peace following their grief.

I know firsthand that life can be drastically changed in an instant. I know that life is a fragile thing and our time here is short. I want to believe that everything thing in my life will remain as it is, yet, when a child dies, it is made so clear that the only moment we have is the one that we are in.

Nik, we will miss you. You and your memory are fixed in our hearts. Be at peace.

5 comments:

Judi Tavill said...

I am so sorry for their loss and yours...I do understand... I will try and send positive vibes and prayers.

Judy aka Red Crow said...

Prayers are with you and the family - it is so sad.

Cynthia said...

That has to be every parent's worst nightmare...

My thoughts are with his family and you too.

iSew said...

Oh how awful. I'm sure they'd be glad to know how much he meant to you.

Pam McFadyen said...

Your words and thoughts will help support the family through this terrible loss. My prayers go out to you and the family. Know that you helped bring joy to his short life.