Dear Amy,

You don’t know me, but from what I’ve heard in the past two weeks, we would be good friends. I’m a childhood friend of your brother-in-law, Dan.

It was just over two weeks ago that I heard from a friend that his brother passed away.

No. That’s not right.

It was just over two weeks ago that I heard your husband was shot and killed in the line of duty.

Since then, I’ve cried. I’ve prayed. And I’ve paid attention. I’ve wondered what it must be like to be you: a mom with four young children, left alone. Dan has shared your strength and faith with me and with many. And I see that while you are now without your husband, you are definitely not alone.

The Community has really reached out to help you. And it inspires me. It’s what a Community is supposed to do.

I pray for you and your kids every day. I hope you don’t feel terribly alone. I pray that God’s arms are supporting, comforting, and protecting you.

I wish I could be there with you. I wish I could get to know you and your kids. I’ve heard stories of how strong and wonderful and considerate you all are.

We’ve suffered some losses in our lives, but I don’t equate those with your loss. Ours was outside the immediate family. And even though I have an inkling of your pain, it can’t compare to what you’re really going through.

I want to say, I’m sorry. I’m sorry there are people in the world who have no hope. Who feel they have no support and no reason to live. I’m sorry they feel the need to take out their anger, depression and frustrations on those around them. I’m sorry the world is so confused, and your husband had to pay the ultimate price.

But I’m so thankful your husband paid the price. I’m so thankful to know that there was someone out there willing to put his life on the line no matter what. Willing to help others before himself. And willing to share his faith with all who would listen.

Your husband is no longer physically here, but his legacy is. And I’ve been so touched by reading stories on his Facebook page, and reading your own postings.

You, Patrick, and your children are so very inspirational. I’m so sorry it took his loss for so many in the world to see that, including me.

But I want to thank you for the encouragement you have personally given me. You don’t even know me but you have encouraged me to keep going. To not give up. To not be selfish. To love. To forgive. To move on.

No. Matter. What.

You are a remarkable woman. And we would be great friends, I just know it.

So if you’re ever in my neck of the woods desert, I’d love to offer you a great cup of coffee and get to know you better.

Until then, I’m just so sorry for your loss, and wish there was so much more I could do.

With love, hugs, and many prayers,

Molly Jo

And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!

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This post is linked up with Pour Your Heart Out at Things I Can’t Say.

WhatstheWord

Meet the Gilmans
"What's the Word?" Wednesday: September 26, 2012
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