One smile

I was walking ahead of Simon, clearing the path for him and leading the way as we wandered to more garage sales. Two little kids came walking the other way on the sidewalk, with their mom walking the street. We shared a quick smile and glanced at each other's children. That's all.

Just that one smile is all I know of this woman. This week, she was 34 weeks pregnant and started having contractions. She hemorrhaged, had an emergency c-section, and the baby died. She was rushed to the nearest big city with complications. And we learned she died last night.

I'm sitting here with that knowledge, with the discomfort of it. Trying not to run away. Breathing in and breathing out. Giving L and Simon an extra hug today.

L worked, and is friends with the woman's mother in law, so we may be going to the funeral to support the family in that way.

Some days it's easy. And other days, not so much.

Wishing you all a peaceful week.

Random: Sorrow

Your children aren't supposed to die before you do. It still applies when they are grown up. Thinking of a mom and sister who are mourning the loss of a son and a brother. We are sorrowful with you.