Sunday, August 29, 2010

Clarksville 2nd Ward...

"We'd like to take a moment to let you know that we lost Bro. Wallace this week.  He was killed in the war in Afghanistan."  with tears in his eyes, our bishop sadly states.

Wow...what an introduction to our new ward.  The rest of the meetings I could hardly focus.  The majority of the ward is Army with most of the men currently deployed.  I saw moms pushing babies in strollers around church while they escorted their other kids to class.  I saw many sad faces in which I wondered what their circumstances were.  I saw a bishopric that seemed desperate and emotional.  I saw women who seemed lonely, tired, and "in their own world" probably just trying to get through the day.

I just can't help but feel sadness for the Wallace family, whom I don't know.  Bro. Wallace was the father of 4 kids ages 1-7 years.  I'm sure his wife is in pieces and probably can't even begin to explain this to her kids.  How does one get through a tragedy like this?  

As I heard Doug telling the kids a goodnight story that he was making up about sleepy dragons and then hearing the kids giggle in delight, all I could feel was gratitude that he is here, in our home...what a blessing.  


5 comments:

  1. Daniel and Kate JohnsonAugust 29, 2010 at 7:51 PM

    How sobering. I cannot even imagine the strength that the members of your ward must have, to be able to endure such hardships and tragedy.

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  2. Holy cow, Amber. I'm glad you guys all made it there, but you're right. That's the most sobering wake up call on earth.

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  3. Wow what a trip!! I'm so glad you guys made it to your new home. I am glad you didn't have anything unpacked...therefore hopefully nothing is missing. You have such a great attitude about everything. Wow, your ward sounds like it will be very strong and in need of everybody to pull together. I think they are in need of cute, fun, sweet, energetic Amber :)!! Good luck with everything and I'm so glad you updated. We miss you.

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  4. That is not a happy circumstance. My sympathies to the Wallace family.There is much need for you there. You bond those sisters up and get them out of their funk.

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  5. Amber I am a true believer in "I'll go where you want me to go!" I'm sorry about the wake up call and for that sweet family (who you don't know, but I'm sure will get to know). I'm sure this ward is in need of some strong people and I'm sure they all pull together when they need each other! After being in a Air Force ward, and seeing so many husbands deployed it can be a challenge, but also a great joy! Stay strong and know you are loved!

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