You may have noticed some serious radio silence here - not updating for two weeks really isn't my style. But sometimes life takes a turn that you don't expect.
Two weeks ago today, my brother Malcolm died.
He was 26, and was
struck by a car while riding his motorcycle. He had spent the weekend working hard to finish up a construction job (he was a self-employed contractor) and took a long ride on a peaceful country highway early on Monday morning to go shooting at a gun club he was a member of. He was struck by a driver that turned left into his path, that didn't see Malcolm on his motorcycle at all. It was a head-on collision, and he was killed instantly.
It breaks my heart that he didn't have a fighting chance, but my heart is also comforted by the fact that he didn't suffer. He died doing something he loved, and looked totally badass while doing it. (He had ammo strapped to his chest, Rambo-style. Seriously.) He lived his life being true to himself, and died the same way.
Nate and I flew to Canada to be with my family last week, and even through our grief, it was a beautiful experience. The outpouring of love from friends, family, and acquaintances blew me away. I have never felt so loved, so supported, and so comforted.
I am so thankful for:
+ My ever-supportive mom and dad. The people that shaped me, and the people that are part of me.
+ The most amazing husband a girl could ever ask for,
Nate. I swear that I fall more in love with him every day.
+ For Nate's parents, who flew from Minnesota to Canada last week to be with us. Their sacrifice meant the world to me and my family.
+ My three best gals, Krista, Tara, and Beth (and their awesome significant others). Who are there for late-night airport pickups, hugs, laughs, coffee, and the messiness of life. I wouldn't be the same without you, and my life is better with you in it.
+ Our incredible community here in Los Angeles. Our church family, co-workers, and friends have brought me so much peace and comfort through prayers, meals, phone calls, texts, and hugs.
+ The support of friends from all over. We've received cards, letters, financial gifts, phone calls, and so much love that my heart has felt like it was about to burst. People showed up to my brother's visitation that I haven't seen in years, and that's something pretty special.
+ For Canada. For my home. For the cool weather of fall. For walks through the forest. For my childhood home. For Tim Horton's (naturally).
+ For my brother, Malcolm. For my warrior boy. For all the fun (and frustration) of growing up together. For his wild spirit and fierce determination to be no one but himself. And of course, for just being my little brother.
Much love,
