Today is my older brother, Bruce’s birthday. Bruce passed away when he was 16 years old in a car accident. He is the 4th of the 11 children in my family and he is a very important part of our family even still. He is talked about often and remembered every day. He was very kind and a good example to those around him. He played any sport he could possibly be a part of and excelled in them. I often wonder what he would be like now and what his wife and children would be like. We miss and love him dearly.
Aaron never knew Bruce because he had passed away already when I met Aaron. Aaron heard stories about Bruce and spoke of him with admiration.
The night Aaron passed away in November, it went through my mind that Aaron was finally meeting Bruce, whom he had never met before. When we were sitting in the hospital beside Aaron that evening, Aaron’s mom, Sue, looked up at me and said that Aaron and Bruce had finally met. It meant a lot to me that she would say that. It has actually been a comforting thing to think about… Aaron and Bruce getting to know one another. Both of them waiting patiently for their families to join them someday.
We love you Bruce…
We love you Aaron…
* * *
14 comments:
that really is such a sweet thought, to think of those two spending time together, getting to know each other.
i never did meet Bruce, but felt like I knew him. your family has done such a beautiful job of keeping his memory alive-and you're doing the same for Aaron. once again, let me say, i admire your strength!!!
my thoughts are with you
Thanks for posting the nice pictures. I'm going to "borrow" them since I have no way to scan any right now. What a comforting thing to know where both Aaron and Bruce are right now. I remember thinking when I was dating Travis that it was sad he didn't know Bruce, who is such a big part of our family. I guess Aaron is the first of the in-laws lucky enough for that. Love you,
Nice tribute Leslie. I will be glad to see Aaron again in heaven and meet Bruce.
I love you Leslie.
I love the pictures of Bruce! They are a nice way to remember him. It's really nice to know that Bruce and Aaron have been given the opportunity to get to know each other. I'm sure they are having a great time together while they wait for the rest of the family to join them if we continue to do what's right.
Thanks for posting Bruce's birthday. I'm sure the pictures are great, but my computer won't let me see them right now! I wanted to say thanks for the song on your blog. It's inspirational. We love all of you!!
I remember always having good feelings about the person Bruce was, although I don't remember him well. I'm sure that he and Aaron are buddies in Heaven.
Hi Leslie,
You and Bruce look so alike - you both have beautiful eyes and beautiful smiles.
Thinking of you both.
Love,
Jane
I feel a familial connection to Bruce even though I have never met him. We were going to burn a candle all day but I feared the damage Luke might create for the entire apartment complex.
We love Aaron and we love Bruce.
Hi Leslie, I love reading your blog. I read it often and I love your inspiring words. You are such a strong person. I truly admire you. I have been wanting to ask for quite some time now but didn't know if I dared, but how did Aaron die? I don't mean to be nosy or pry but I feel like I have really come to know both of you in special way. I truly do apologize if I have offended you. I hope I have not been out of place. Anyway, Take care Leslie and I pray the the Lord will continue to bless you with peace and comfort at this time.
Hi Leslie, my name is Stevie Maree. I am 9 years old and was looking at your blog after my mom told me about you. I am Becky Orton's daughter. We live in NH. Your little boy is so cute. I am really sorry that you lost your husband. I will pray for you and Aaron Jr. I think you have a very beautiful smile. Love, Stevie
I'm so bummed! I can't seem to be able to view the pictures in this post. Maybe it's because I have a mac. I hope you are hanging in there Leslie. I love you and still pray for you and Aaron Jr. every day. I remember you talking about Bruce when we served together in England. I am sure that Aaron and Bruce are enjoying being together.
Love you
You certainly have experienced your share of losses in your life. But what a wonderful way to think of it--Aaron and Bruce finally meeting. I know they are both anxiously awaiting you...however long it takes. I think of you often and hope that each day is a little less painful. Be strong!
I don't know if you did something... but I can see the pictures of Bruce this morning on my computer. How precious! Thanks for sharing Leslie. Thinking of you today!
Hi Leslie - I've been so engrossed in reading about your sweet family and your trials and blessings since the death of your much loved and loving husband, that I don't remember how I got here (maybe Tami - Matchbox Mom).
Anyway, I just wanted to tell you how much my heart goes out to you. This is the post that made me come out of hiding finally because my brothers are named Bruce and Aaron.
I don't really know what to say: You have a beautiful smile, your son is darling, your husband obviously loved you tremendously, I pray that your sorrow will be lifted and all the love remain.
- Janie
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