I apologize for the somber mood of this entry.
I found out last night that my friend’s husband that I had recently knit the hat and fingerless mitts for died on Monday night. He had cancer, and from what I can tell, he wasn’t able to withstand the treatment.
I do not grieve for him, as I know he’s in a better place right now, and is no longer in pain. But I grieve for those left behind to live with the void. His wife, his family, and to a smaller degree, the rest of us that knew him.
Although I’m sure it doesn’t get easier with experience, this is a very strange feeling for me. I haven’t lost many people that I know personally. There have been many deaths I was aware of that were significant to people I knew and loved, but it’s always been a step removed from me.
I knew and respected this man. I’d sat in on his classes. I am very familiar with his voice. I adore his wife and daughter.
I ache for them.
November 17th, 2005 at 3:28 am
What terrible news. I am very sorry for your loss.
November 17th, 2005 at 4:39 am
I’m sorry for your loss and hope everyone is doing well.
November 17th, 2005 at 4:42 am
My thoughts and prayers are with you, his family and all his friends. I am so very sorry.
November 17th, 2005 at 5:25 am
That’s so sad. Unfortunately, I’ve known quite a few amazing and wonderful people who died of cancer. One of my most inspiring cello instructors taught me right up until a few days before she passed on. I only knew her for a couple of months yet she taught me more about myself and my abilities than I could ever thank her for. I feel very blessed that she touched my life and that I’ve known almost as many people who have recovered from cancer as well.
November 17th, 2005 at 7:40 am
Thank you for saying that you do not grieve for him, but for those left behind. That is so true and so often misunderstood.
November 17th, 2005 at 10:44 am
Oh mama. I’m so sorry. You and your friends are in my thoughts.
November 17th, 2005 at 11:23 am
oh, how sad. I hate cancer. My condolences to you and especially his wife and daughter.
November 17th, 2005 at 9:24 pm
I too wanted to say that I will keep you in my thoughts. When my grandfather passed away from his cancer treatment, I was stuck between being unbearably sad that he was gone and being releaved that his pain was finished. I will think good thoughts for you and yours.
November 18th, 2005 at 9:03 pm
I’m sorry to hear the sad news. Thinking of you and your friend’s family.