Today is the four year anniversary of my brother Michael’s death. The above picture was taken for the local newspaper but in the words of the reporter, “No one should have that kind of smile at a trailer fire”. But that was Michael – he was very rarely without that smile on his face.
Michael died in a single car accident on his way home from work doing what he always did – living his life without wasting a second. He was on his way to the river to meet with friends despite having to return to the same town where he worked just hours later for a foxhunt with our dad. He never, ever wanted to miss a moment. In trying to do so much, he fell asleep at the wheel.
It’s been a very difficult four years for my family. Michael was the youngest and my only sibling. The shock of that day is still with me and probably always will be.
But more importantly, Michael is always with me.
.png "mentoring")
.png "footer1")
.png "footer2")
26 comments
I feel for ya girl! I haven’t lost a sibling but I lost both my parents in 2006, just a month apart. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss them. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers today!
I’m so sorry for your loss. Damn he was a looker!!! I lost a very close friend (she lived with my family) in 1994 and a day doesn’t go by when I think, I wonder what Christina would have to say about….”
Oh my, that made me cry. I am so sorry. I am sure it has been hard for your entire family. I would miss that smile too. Again, I am so sorry for your loss.
I’m so sorry about your brother. I have only one sibling and I can’t imagine life without her. It must be terribly hard. And what a cutie he was!
By the way, thanks for my award!
I am so sorry you lost your brother. I’m glad your memories are of someone who lived life to the fullest, enjoying every momement. I know you will miss him always. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Oh no! The last four years must have been so hard for you and your parents. Your brother looks like the kind of guy people would want to have as a buddy. My prayers are with you, especially today.
I also, am sorry. To me, that is the worst part of life, losing the people we love. The anniversaries are always the hardest for me, or maybe it’s the good times I miss sharing with them. I cry some on the anniversary of the day I lost them, but the days when life’s amazing things happern, I miss them a little more and cry a little longer. (Christmas, promotions, weddings, kids) Your brother sounds amazing.
I am so sorry
That is a lovely photo of him. I know you will have heaps of great memories of him and will treasure them always.
My heart is with you today in the anniversary of the loss of your brother. I hope you can find peace in remembering special times you shared.
My heart goes out to you on this day.
Oh, Jennifer, I’m so sorry about your brother. I can’t imagine what it’s like to lose a sibling. I would be forever changed if I lost my little sister.
He had a wonderful smile and was so handsome. What an honorable profession too.
I hurt for you. I know after four years, you must still mourn for him. Hugs to you.
So very sorry….my only sibling also died 4 yrs ago after a brief illness. It’s “odd” to become an “only child” after having had a brother. Again, so very sorry and thankful that you have such good and sweet memories.
Michael, my cousin… RIP. we miss you everyday. keep watching over us. i love you.
What a terrible hole must be left in your heart? May God bless your family this seek.
judi
This week.
Oh my goodness! The girls and I spent the afternoon with my mom – what a wonderful thing to come home and find these messages.
Thank you all so very much.
~Jennifer
I’m so sorry about your brother, it was nice of you and the girls to spend the day with your mom. Your brother was a very nice looking young man.
Blessings – as you contemplate both loss and rebirth
I am glad that you had a nice day yesterday even though the movie was crap. I love ya, girl.
I’m so sorry Jennifer. I hope you and your mom celebrated good memories yesterday.
What a smile! We never know how long our loved ones will be with us… it is always a shock when someone dies suddenly without warning.
Ain’t you had that baby yet?
My thoughts are with you, Jennifer.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
My thoughts are with you and I am so glad you have such wonderful memories of your brother.
He is beautiful. I’m so sorry. I can’t imagine your pain.
Lea
Jennifer, that is so sad, and he is so handsome. You and he have the same wonderful smile.
Brothers are special for sure. I lost mine almost 20 years ago, and it’s still very hard.
So sorry for your family’s loss.