I think about the good fortune she had to be able to see her son wed in paradise and how happy he must have been for her to be able to be there. I think of the misfortune of having their anniversary forever tied to this tragedy. Birth, joy, renewal, pain, death and tragedy all rolled up in one unforgettable moment. My heart goes out to all of them.
I think of the flight crew coming to work this morning on a non-stop flight to paradise. Their expectations certainly had to be of a happy and excited group going down and a dejected but satisfied group coming back. There is nothing that can prepare you for having someone die in your arms, I know, and I can’t believe how professional they all continue to be. My respect knows no bounds, they are amazing.
I think about what this means for Sweetie Pie and me. I pride myself on my ability to see connections that aren’t necessarily obvious to others, there must be something to this unforeseeable event that means something to our journey. The dream wedding that doesn’t end happily ever after must have some association to the Family Man without a family. It feels like a unique event concocted by the Universe to drive home SOME relevant point to me. We talk very little on the flight to Detroit but we hold hands through long stretches of the flight. I decide at some point near our destination that figuring it out isn’t the really important thing. In fact, it can’t be figured out, only accepted. A crazy journey specific to me. What is really important lies gently resting in my lightly clasped left hand. A partner who loves and cherishes me through all of it, who shows through word and deed that her greatest desire is to be there by my side. Sweetie Pie!!