Mar 7, 2016

Loss and Renewal

I have tons of posts sitting half-written on Blogger.  I have lots of thoughts floating around this old noggin, but getting them out has just been impossible lately.  Work, kids, volunteer obligations- all of the normal things that take up my time.

Then, about a week and a half ago, a family friend passed away suddenly in a skiing accident. It was a shocking loss. I'm absolutely terrible at talking or writing about this sort of thing, so excuse my ineptitude.  I have been mired in grief- for him, his family- especially his five young children, and for all of his friends and loved ones.

I was so thankful to escape this weekend and head to a women's retreat in the mountains.  I drove up the back way, which takes you through Wears Valley, one of the prettiest places in the world.  Then I cut through part of the National Park.  Bored with the millions of choices on satellite radio, I randomly flipped to my CD player, with absolutely no clue as to what it contained.  Immediately, Ralph Stanley's banjo and voice singing "I'll Fly Away" filled my car, followed by Nitty Gritty Dirt Band singing "Will the Circle Be Unbroken", Loretta Lynn's version of "Wildwood Flower", and Dolly's "My Tennessee Mountain Home".  I was cradled by the steep, rhododendron covered hills on either side of the winding road, and guided by the creek flowing alongside. Filled with peace, my heart was finally comforted. Some dulcimer music and my mountains lifted my spirit.

Such comfort was followed by a lovely weekend full of learning, laughter, good food and wine, and a nice hike through Cucumber Gap.  I'm now ready to get back in the swing of things (hopefully).  To put aside my sadness and to help those who need it.  Or at least do my best.

That is, once I finish the mountains of laundry and vacuuming and straightening that didn't happen when I was away in the mountains.  Back to life, back to reality. . . .

8 comments:

  1. So sorry
    Prayers
    www.rsrue.blogspot.com

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  2. As soon as I heard the news I thought of you. I too cannot stop thinking about his young wife and kids, such a heartbreaking tragedy. What a great guy who touched so many lives and bought great things to the South. He is mourned by many. Hope you are feeling better.

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  3. Five young children ... that is so sad. I am happy that you got a rejuvenating weekend away and that the soundtrack that coincidentally played for you was filled with meaning and inspiration!

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  4. I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. I will keep his family and you in my thoughts. So glad you found some peace in the mountains this weekend!

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  5. Sending some prayers your way and to your friends family. What a horrible sad loss of someone too young.

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  6. So sorry for your loss, Samma. Absolutely heartbreaking. Sending love and prayer to you and his family.

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  7. Losses are even the more tragic when young children are involved. So sorry for your loss.

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  8. I am sorry to hear about your loss. It sounds like a good weekend in a special place was just what the doctor ordered. I look forward to your posts once you get back in the swing of things!

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