Nov 15, 20152 min read

Finding Peace After Tragic Loss

I just received horrible news! A dear real estate friend has just encountered a horrific, tragic loss. I’m lying here with so many confusing feelings and not sure if this is even real life…

It was just this week that I was thinking about some of the losses in my life. In the moments, weeks, and even years past losing someone unexpectedly, much less tragically, it’s hard to find peace. It’s hard to understand why someone would be taken from this life when you expect they have so much life ahead of them. Until one day, it hits you! God has a plan & a purpose! I have asked “why?” so many times. What could His reason be? I’m sure He doesn’t do anything for one reason alone. I’m sure His purpose is broad. However, I can finally look at some of my personal losses of close, dear friends, like family, with a sense of peace.

My life could be very different! Their lives could have turned out even more tragic than death. It’s hard to think that about those that I’ve lost, but it’s possible because I do think there are worse things than dying. Holding my precious baby boy, praising God for him… One different turn, and he wouldn’t be mine! My epiphany is probably way different than others who have shared my same losses. God knows that He will affect each individually in a different way through one act. This week’s thought about death isn’t the only time I’ve found peace or purpose in past losses, but the timing was purposeful because tonight I received news of another tragedy.

You may have heard about a seventeen year old girl being stabbed to death in Acworth, GA this weekend? That was sweet Abbey. Abbey, the daughter of my friend, Debi Smith. I don’t know anymore about her death than the Internet or news has offered, but I know it’s horrible, tragic, devastating, and I don’t know how Debi or Abbey’s father and their families will move on. I do know that they need our prayers, our love and support. I hear that their local community has already outdone themselves with support of all kinds. I’m sure they need it now, and I know they will need it later. I hope we don’t forget Abbey and how much her family will need us as they learn to live without her and learn to find peace after this loss.

I have been in tears over this news. I have, unfortunately, tried to put myself in my friend’s shoes. No parent should have to consider what life would be like without their child; much less, live life without their child… but some do! I‘m thankful that I have #MyBoy to hold, hug & kiss and believe me… I will be cherishing these moments; trying not to take them for granted.

Leave your words of encouragement and love for Debi & her family in the comments below!

In Memory of Abbey Kay Hebert