So Sad

Posted Wed May 14, 2003 in

The world we live in is full of death, dismay, and destruction. These things affect our lives and the lives of those around us.

Although it will probably be relegated to a second page article in the Austin papers, I just received word that a lady I worked with, Sheila, was shot and killed by her husband last night. He then proceeded to take his own life.

They have one son who is away at college. I can only begin to imagine the devastation he must feel. That act last night may have permanently damaged the child as well.

The impact will ripple out to the community of which they were a part. I knew her from my contacts with the state department of transportation, which she worked for. Her colleagues will be dismayed by the news as well. The shock waves will work their way out from that epicenter, as they are now, affecting the emotions of those who knew them. Many will ask “why?” but these questions will go unanswered, because there is no reason why. It just is.

My thoughts and prayers go out to their loved ones and friends. I hate stuff like this. It always comes as a shock that it is so close.

  1. having both witnessed gun violence and had it strike close to home, my heart goes out to your community. hope you can find connection and support in mourning and healing. never underestimate the affect things like this can have on you even when it's not someone very close to you (doesn't sound like you do) and also never underestimate how much people in a community can pull together in response to it. prayers-- r@d@r

    — r@d@r    19 May 2003, 03:40    #

  2. Fortunately (if that word can even apply in this case), I'm not that close to the situation. But, boy do I feel badly for those who are! A few folks at Tech worked fairly closely with Sheila and I can only imagine the shock they are feeling. I felt it and I'm only on the periphery. Thanks...

    — ruminator    19 May 2003, 11:47    #