I have mentioned to the hubby before about how it's nice to not have to talk to a neighbor every time you pop outside for a moment...I do like how everyone keeps to themselves in this neighborhood.
But, sadly, our neighbor (a Mom of 2) passed away a couple months back. I heard from friends that live on our street. I am saddened to see the family coming and going, silently, and constantly wondering how they are doing, but not knowing them even well enough to take over a casserole or say the typical, "if you need anything..." I'm unsure of how I would even be able to acknowledge what happened in a conversation with them. I've seen the Dad tending to the perennials that the Mom, no doubt, planted the year prior. This stuff tears at me.
I had talked to their son a couple of times and thought he was just the sweetest kid. I believe he is around 14 and his sister is about 17. I truly hope they are doing ok...such tender ages to go through something so difficult. I lost my Dad when I was 25 and it killed me...I find it astonishing how much is still hurts 8 years later. I still yearn to talk to him, to see how he would be with my children (that's a big one).
They have had their house up for sale for awhile now and they are filling the moving truck today. Their Dad is in the military and that may be why they are moving, but I can't help but think that living in that house without Mom is more sadness than they can endure. I hope their Dad is able to find the tenderness to help these young kids through this terrible time. I glanced out my window and see the boy power-washing the driveway off, headphones in. I feel a great sadness I cannot express. I'm sorry I can't help. I'm sorry I'm not brave enough to say anything. I'm sorry I don't know you well enough to know if you would even want me to say anything. I'm sorry for your loss.
