Broken Hearted.

Or emotional wreck.  Either one would describe me today. 

I got a text as soon as I got to work this morning from a friend saying that a girl we know had been killed in a car accident.  I read the text & thought that it had to be a mistake or a rumor.  I wish it was, but it was true. 

I met Paula about 12 years ago.  We went to the same community college & we worked part-time together at the same bank.  We were never close or even friends for that matter.  I knew her when she started dating Patrick (who is my husband now) & I remember always telling her what a great couple they were.  (I really did think they made a good couple at the time).  We were acquaintances & over the years we have often run into each other on lunch hour, at the mall or running errands.  Sometimes we would speak if we made eye contact, but most of the time we wouldn't.  It's not that I disliked her, it just tends to be that way when you are with that person's ex. 

She has three beautiful children.  One little boy around 4 & a set of twins who are about 2 years old, I think.  I can't even think about them without breaking down into tears.  I KNOW she was a wonderful mother.  We happened to be at the same restaurant for lunch a couple of months ago.  She had her kids & met her husband for lunch & I watched her handle three kids under the age of four with grace.  I sat back & admired her for that, even commenting to my co-workers how well behaved her children were.  I hear Ashley, who goes to church with her, tell stories each week about how Paula's oldest son is one of her favorite kids ever & how smart & funny he is.    

It isn't fair that her kids have to grow up most likely not even remembering their mom or how great she was.  I read a friend's Facebook status today that said 'The one thing you can always do for someone else when you think there is nothing you can do for them, is say a prayer.'  So that's what I've been doing all day for this family, her children & all her friends. 

Please pray for this family.