Incomprehensible

The great time we had at my Dad's party this weekend comes tinged with sadness. My mother called me yesterday to let me know that one of the guests, who has been a friend of our family for years, was murdered the night after the party by her mentally ill son.

To say that I'm in disbelief would be an understatement. This was a woman who had raised five kids on her own and who was the essence of patience and kindness. My folks are shattered, as is everyone who knew her.

I don't know what comes after this, but I have to believe that she went someplace good. And I'm doing my best to keep everyone in her family (and I do mean every one) in my prayers. It's not easy.

In memoriam: Sue Carlson, 1936-2006. You will be missed.