The Adams Family

 Last week, we received tragic news. The husband of a family that lived in Lake Jackson died in a motorcycle accident. He leaves behind his wife of nearly 12 years and their five children, between 18 months and 9 years old. From my recollection, this family was the first family we met outside of Church in Lake Jackson. Their second child and Ashton were born the same year and I drew a lot of my mothering from observing Michelle with her little ones.

I am heartbroken for her and her children. I watched the funeral services today and seeing her children sit there was difficult. Since his passing, I find myself thinking, "How is Michelle going to deal with... fill the in blank?"

What about the house they live in? Can she afford to continue living there? Will she need to find work soon and find childcare? How will she pack up his clothes? What will she say to her kids at night when they miss their dad? How can she function each day?

This news has hit me harder than another friend who lost his wife earlier this summer. Probably for a few reasons. 1) I never met his wife. Whereas, I met Joseph and sat in their home. 2) He was now a single dad raising two boys. In the Adams family, I relate more because if my Joseph died, I would be much like Michelle.

As the days pass, I find myself asking similar questions too. I hope Joseph and I grow old together. But there is very little in life that is certain. How would I function? I'm grateful for the Holy Ghost and the Savior that can comfort and provide peace during trials. I wish I could do so much more for Michelle. But they moved to Utah a few years back.

As I watched the service and looked at Michelle, I felt sadness but I also felt assurance. I know she will see him again. I know that. I know their children will hug their father again. While this will most likely be the most challenging time in their lives, I know that their family is sealed. Their family is not done, finished, gone. Their family continues to function with their husband/dad on the other side of the veil. And I am reassured in that. That no matter what happens to my family, we are sealed for time and for eternity.