Monday, August 17, 2009

six

Six years ago, I was working at GapKids, folding and re-folding (and re-folding...) tiny t-shirts and jeans and re-stocking jelly sandals and baby hats.

Six years ago, I was in between my first two years at Berry, feeling more comfortable with the idea of being a college student but still tied to my home in Augusta.

Six years ago, I was redefining myself within my relationships, sometimes for better and sometimes for worse.

Six years ago, I got a phone call from my father. I left mid-shift, probably mid-shirtfold, at GapKids, rushed to the home that was still my home although I only lived there for a few months of the year, and was faced with news that would change how I defined myself forever.

Six years ago, I had to make a lot of phone calls to share the news that I didn't want to believe, let alone pass on.

Six years ago, I lost one of the most amazing and talented people I have ever known. Someone who I looked up to like a brother, respected as an artist, and loved as one of my dearest friends.

And today, six years later, I miss him still.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

I think that was one of the hardest things I have ever had to personally tell you. You went completely limp, like a sack of potatoes. It is so hard to see one of your children feel such intense pain and loss knowing that it is one of life's absolutely necessary lessons, but one that we protect you from as long as we can. The good news is that he will also be a very positive part of your life forever!

GreerAnn said...

Dad- I actually remember that moment very vividly. I think that is the only news I've gotten (so far...) that has actually made my knees give out. But I'm glad it was you who told me. You were definitely a rock for our whole family and then some. And I am glad to have had him in my life, even if it did seem too brief.

Patti Ann said...

Six years...what a tragedy and loss for all of us. I wish he had been around longer, too.

Unknown said...

i was unpacking clothes into my new sophomore dorm when dee called to tell me. I remember thinking that couldn't possibly be true and calling you right away and jumping in my car with my mother and driving back to GA the next morning. i'm glad we all had each other to lean on then...

Unknown said...

Jamie passed away? I had NO idea...