Saturday morning was one of those moments in time you never want to forget. Cedar Creek Little League was having their opening ceremonies and they had designated it "Brody Bourland Day" in honor of Brody who died in the accident on January 16 involving our church youth. It was to begin at 10:00 a.m. I was in the shower at 9:40, Max was just getting up. I went in and told him if he wanted to go we needed to get movin'. He jumped up, got dressed, (no breakfast) and was ready in a few minutes. He really did want to go. As alumni(?) of Key City Little League we were unsure of exactly where Cedar Creek was located but had an idea. Also, we were feeling somewhat intrusive coming from another part of town. Those worries were soon over. We drove directly to their park, got a parking space right behind the bleachers in a completely crowded parking lot and walked up right as the ceremony honoring Brody began. After the ceremony we were warmly welcomed by those present. But, I will always remember Max's face as they spoke of Brody's life and the person he had been. Brody was always smiling, an encouragement to those around him, a boy who drew others to him even though he was somewhat quiet. I wish I'd known him. Max is glad he did even though he didn't know him well. The ceremony was so moving. They unveiled a sign on the outfield wall with a picture of Brody in his baseball uniform. I wish I could remember the quote on the bottom. It was perfect. We bought Max a red t-shirt that honors Brody. More importantly I hope it represents to Max the person Brody was and Who he represented. Brody was a young man filled with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and longsuffering. You can see it in his eyes in each photo I've seen of him. I would venture to say he was filled with the Spirit. And then there's a glimmer in his eye that says he was "all boy". I love that. As we drove off from the ballpark, Max looked at me and said, "Mom, I think we were supposed to be there." I think we were, too.
There are some who say we as a church family have moved on and are "getting over" the accident. This couldn't be farther from the truth. Every single day we think about Brody. We pray for his family. We think about and pray constantly for Jon Westin and his continued healing. Everytime I sit at a baseball game I think of Brody and Jon Westin and Chris Cope who aren't playing this year. And trust me, that's alot of time spent thinking. Our lives will never be the same. never.
1 comment:
Of course, you will never be the same...none of you. No young person in your community can ever feel the same invulnerability of youth, the same carefree wastefulness of days. Some will grasp more firmly on purpose. Some will feel call to ministry. And others will take up the gentle task of loving which their friend modeled so well. The adults will hold their children to them more tenderly. Some will become active in causes to raise safety awareness. No one ever lives or dies in vain. Bless you as you mourn and attempt to bring comfort to those who mourn around you.
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