"Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what's going to happen next. Delicious Ambiguity." ~ Gilda Radner

Friday, July 10, 2009

If I Could Turn Back Time...

When Daniel was five years old, he once said to me, "I am never going to learn to drive."

When Daniel turned 16 three months ago, he was chomping at the bit to get his license.

Two nights ago, Daniel (right) and his best friend, Casey, were in a horrible car accident. Daniel survived. Casey did not.

Many wonderful friends have rallied around our family and Casey's family in the past 48 hours. And many have asked me, "Is there anything we can do for you guys?"

Yes. There is.

Please, if you can, turn back time. To when Daniel and Casey were five years old. Hand me some bubble wrap. Watch as I wrap them both up all safe and sound and lock them in the house where I can protect them and know they are safe at all times...And they will never learn to drive.

13 comments:

Diane said...

They are wrapped up Ann, in your heart and in the hearts of his friend's family - always there safe and sound :)

Unknown said...

Blogger Chick:

I can't begin to imagine what you must be feeling - relief, sadness, joy, sorrow - the full gamut of emotions. I trust your faith will provide some sense of comfort or at the very least, the realization that you're not alone and that these things are in the hands of a higher being.

You and your family, as well as Casey's family, will be in our prayers as you and the community move through this. Hold on tight, my friend!

Annie said...

Diane and Billy B, thanks so much for taking the time to leave a note of friendship and encouragement. Indeed, the entire CR-B community is devastated by this tragic turn of events...it is a long, hard road that lies ahead...

Warren said...

Dear Ann & John,
My heart aches for you and all involved, and what I feel must be the merest glimpse of what you are feeling. As you already know, you have to be strong for Daniel. He is going to have a mountain of survivor's guilt. Many lives are destroyed by such a burden, but many others have resolved not to compound the tragedy, but to live the life that has been spared in a way that pays homage to the life that was lost. I trust that God will give the two of you the wisdom and strength to guide Daniel through what will undeniably be a dark time.
God Bless you all.
Warren

annie said...

Oh, Warren, thank you so much. You and Karen have always been there for us no matter how big or small the adversity...thank you. We are so blessed with so many wonderful friends near and far who are helping us thru this in so many ways. Casey would want Daniel to be the very best he can be, and to keep smiling no matter what. He had a wonderful, dry wit and an infectious smile. Casey's parents asked John to share his memories of Casey during the funeral service, and John captured his essence perfectly. I think John's stories offered a lot of comfort to everyone that day. We love you and miss you and thank you for all your care and concern.

Jeff & Lisa said...

John & Ann, We have just heard of the horrible accident involving Daniel and his friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Daniel, you and all involved. With thoughts and prayers, Jeff & Lisa

Anonymous said...

Annie, What can I say that other people have not. Our hearst are with you and John and KNOW that we are here for you , whatever you need.
We love you all, very much and a whole lot of memories came rushing back when I read this. I can remember him on that bike in the garage in Menlo as we began to deliver papers. Hang on to him Annie and give him strength. You will be in our prayers. Stay strong and use your faith. Love you my dear

Annie said...

Dear Jeff and Lisa, and my dear Anonymous: Your caring comments are so appreciated. It's the love and concern from friends like you guys that are helping us through this heartbreaking ordeal. Hugs all 'round....

Anonymous said...

Goodmorning Annie. Praying that things are improving,although I am sure the pain is goingto be there for sometime.
Norma sends her love but I think she has contacted you, or at least she said she would.
Would love to take your pain away,but not able to do that, just know that you and your family are in our prayers everyday and we are here if you need something. I was anonymous on the other comment simply becasue I forgot to put my name on there. Sorry, take care and love ya NICK

Annie said...

Hey Nick! I knew it was you, honey...the delivering papers comment was the giveaway...:) Got a wonderful sweet card from Norma and George today...that meant a lot. We are holding on tight. You are a sweetheart...

Anonymous said...

Good morning young lady.I hope things are getting better. Just wanted you to know that we are thinking of you and your family and that the prayers are continuing.
No need to respond, just wanted to say hi and take care. Love ya all. Nick

Anonymous said...

Good afternoon my dear,hope things are going well. I am supposed to be working but would much rather talk with you!!
Think of you and your family everyday, praying that you have a peace and the days are getting brighter.
Don't want to bother you any more, just know that we are thinking of you and are here if you need anything. Love ya and be safe. Nick

Annie said...

Nick, my love! You are never a bother, you know that! My gosh, I am so glad to hear from you.We need to actually talk some day...thanks for keeping everyone in your thoughts...we somehow keep on keeping on...hope all is well with you...

Thanks for taking the time to slog through comment moderation, by the way. Not surprising, a couple of my sick psycho jerk detractors from my news blogging days actually posted some infantile remarks on here following the accident...hence, the filter.

love and hugs to you and yours...