At the risk of ruining my reputation as a smart ass, I want to tell you all something.

[Midlodemocrat]

I just returned from the wake for the 20yo friend of TM's who was found dead in the Museum District in downtown Richmond.

I know her parents and her little brother and have for years, so I felt compelled to go.

Anyway. Those parents, uncles, little grandmother couldn't be more devastated. It was really, really sad. I can't imagine burying one of the Midlets. I sure as shit wouldn't be as strong as my friend was, that's for sure.

So, not being didactic, but kiss your loved ones often and let them know how much they mean to you. This child was absolutely adored, so there are no regrets there, but let's face it; those of us who are parents know that the teen/early adult years can be difficult.

So, anyway. Signing off for the night. Have a good one. Be safe.

[Shell Beau]

1. That is right midlo! I am sorry for everyone who loved her.

:hug:

Life is just too short. Let everyone know you love them. You really never know if you will see them again. And I can tell you from my own mother's experience, you want your last visit to be a loving one. Her last words to my brother were kicking him out of the house. It was warranted, but she will never be at peace. Ever. :hug:

[demmiblue]

2. I can't even imagine.

"I sure as shit wouldn't be as strong as my friend was, that's for sure." I don't think it is about strength, I think it is more about survival. But I know what you mean. Personally, I think that I would be catatonic.

Take care, Midlo... I am counting my blessings after reading your post.

:hug:

[CreekDog]

3. Life is so fragile and precious

Against death, all we have is each other to hold onto.

[cboy4]

4. This is why we love you.

[madinmaryland]

10. +1

[mainegreen]

5. Every day I shower love on my kidlet, and take the time to really talk and play w/him.

Every day.

[AlCzervik]

6. my almost 24 year cousin was killed in rollover accident last week, his parents

are a wreck.

Not that's okay for old folks to shuffle off but burying your son goes against the natural order of things.

[auntAgonist]

8. AlCzervik, I'm so sorry for your family's loss.

It sure isn't the right order of things.

May your cousin Rest In Peace.

too young, too soon gone.

aA
kesha

[AlCzervik]

thanks Kesha and my best to your grand daughter and her parents.

:hug:

[auntAgonist]

7. absolutely sad. Parents burying children

should never happen.

:hug:

condolences to all of her family and friends.

aA
kesha

[madinmaryland]

9. Thanks, Midlo. I will do that tonite.

Take care.

[ThomCat]

11. It's good that you and your family, and others are there for Them.

:)

They might be strong, but they'll still need support after this. :(

[Swede]

12. Sad news Midlo.

My thoughts and prayers to the family.

[Debi]

13. That's so awful Midlo

Debi, Jr. and Mr. Debi and I tell each other constantly how much we love each other. Can't imagine life w/out either one of them. :hug:

[AwakeAtLast]

14. Always good to be reminded

of what we take for granted.

:hug:

[latebloomer]

15. So tragic

and thanks for reminding us that tomorrow is not promised, and every moment with our loved ones is precious.

[Tuesday Afternoon]

16. my sincere condolences to the family.

[Shine]

17. Ho. Wise words, indeed, my friend.

:hug:

I'm sorry for the sadness that has touched your life and the life of your friends.

[WillParkinson]

18. My deepest sympathies to all involved...

And :hug: to you and your family.

[CC]

19. My heart goes out to the family

and friends of the young lady.

Right now the family is in shock. It will get worse for them in a few days. They will need people to just be there for them for the next few weeks. The best thing you can do is just listen and let them lean.

[tigereye]

20. I hope they catch whomever did this - and I feel very bad for her family

My heart goes out to her parents and friends...

[LostinVA]

21. I went to the Times-Dispatch pag and read about it yesterday

You know I worked with college kids at UVA for years, so when someone this age is killed, like at the Tech Massacre, it hits me like a ton of bricks. Kids that age are so vibrant and ready for life.

Hugs to you, and a special one to TM.

[Missy Vixen]

22. So, hug your kids for us

:hug: :loveya:

[Odin2005]

23. (((HUGS)))

[mentalsolstice]

24. You're a woman of great wisdom (and compassion)

Both the real-life kind and the smart-ass kind. :hug: