Saturday, March 21, 2015

Racing with an Angel--March 21: Slice of Life Challenge #SOLC 2015: 14/31

Today was a day of celebration. A day of coming together and rallying around a family, a community, and most importantly, a little boy.

I never knew this little boy, but I knew his favorite color was, and probably still is, red. I've been told by my friend Eunice, who knows everyone in our town, that this little boy loved bagels. And I know he loved baseball too. I've seen gorgeous pictures of him...ones that make me wish pictures had that 3D capacity, so I could reach in and pinch those cheeks of his.

I've known his sister, his mom, and his dad. A family I've grown to love very much. So, I guess that gives me a glimmer of his essence, but not really that dive in deep close look.

I am a teacher, a lover of kids and families and life. And today, James gave us a chance to celebrate him and that very special life that comes to us in early spring. There we were, walking together, at first in a soft, silent falling snow, but then later...at the end of the race, in that very first inkling, that warm gust, of spring! A miracle!

Happy Birthday in heaven, James! We knew you were there in our midst! I hope to always be able to walk, to hug, to think of what could have been...but to be reminded about the ever soft fragility of life!

The present is our present to one another, the beautiful red balloon we have to remember to hang onto each and every day.


11 comments:

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful tribute to what sounds like a very special boy. You've brought him to life - hope his family reads your words!

Unknown said...

What a moving tribute! The family must really appreciate all the community support and the sharing of memories.

Beverley Baird said...

Such a loving tribute! So wonderful when a community comes together in love and support.

Unknown said...

Such a beautiful tribute, brought tears to my eyes.

Unknown said...

What a wonderful way to celebrate the memory of a special boy.

Morgan said...

"The present is our present to one another," I love this line. Thank you for a great reminder of how Precious each moment is.

Becky Leff said...

Beautiful tribute! The family is fortunate to have such wonderful support.

Lynn said...

What a loving tribute to a little boy. You are giving such a gift to his family. I hope they are able to read your thoughts about their precious boy.

Unknown said...

The ripple effect when a community loses a child is heart wrenching but out of sadness something positive can grow. How beautiful that the community came together to celebrate his life.

Robin said...

This is a lovely tribute! I'm sure his family appreciates it very much!

Anonymous said...

Anytime I hear of a child dying, it breaks my heart, as I'm sure it does anyone else's. This was so sad, yet beautiful.