For Tracie

Today after I left your mom's viewing I thought about something you said and how I responded. When you said "you know how I am feeling you have been through this" and then I said "yes". That was the wrong response.

On my way back to work I thought about my response and this is what I should have said:

"Losing my dad when I am relatively young was ALWAYS a part of my story. I always knew it and had already come to terms with it long before it actually happened. Because I knew this, I planned accordingly. While losing him was still really hard and I miss him everyday, and will not have him for yet to come important parts in my life, this was still ALWAYS a part of my story.
However, you losing your mom was NOT a part of your story. You still had many years and many memories that needed to be made. Conversations, arguments, hugs, and learning moments that needed to be shared. Laughter and crying. You losing your mom was NOT a part of your story. I have know idea how you feel."

I can't imagine how hard the next little while...or long while will be for you. I can tell you that nothing helps more than the Gospel. Finding strength through prayer and scripture study. Turn to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and feel their love. Talk about it as much as you need. Make sure you have fun and remember the good parts. Also, don't forget to laugh. I love you.