Rodney

Even though we know that dying is an inevitable part of living, it still knocks you off of your feet when it happens to someone you love. 

When I was 17 my older sister started dating Rodney.  This was a big deal because my sister and I grew up in a world where dating outside ones religion was not acceptable.  Not only was she dating this "worldly" man, but she was also living with him and I was let in on their little secret….. a secret that was kept from my parents.  My sister had the stupid idea (or maybe genius idea) to let the cat out of the bag while my mother was in labor with my youngest sister….My mom was too distracted preoccupied to care.  This is how Rodney was introduced and how he became a member of our family. 

It feels like Rodney has always been a member of our family.  He was the first brother that I ever had.  He was such a kind and loving man.  A good fit, at the time, for my sister.  We used to joke that they were so similar to one another….they even kind of looked the same.  Two dorky kind people (no offence) who found each other in this mad world.  I loved them both, and stood up with them on the day that they got married.  I was also right alongside them the day that they welcomed my niece into this world. 

When I turned 18, Rodney got me a job working at his brother’s best friend’s restaurant. I loved it there.  It was such a good job.  I worked with some awesome people.  I have such fondness when I look back at that time in my life.  I worked side by side with Rodney on a daily basis.  He would frequently give me advice.  Often unsolicited….He was after all my big brother.  I was working with Rodney the night that Frank (the owner) died.  It was Rodney that broke the news to us.  It was a sad moment that we shared and I will never forget it. 

I worked at the restaurant on and off for many years.  I was even working there when I became pregnant with Logan.  Poor Rodney had to deal with his crazy pregnant sister-in-law at work.  I’m sure it was no picnic.  I remember going into that back office on more than one occasion, bawling my eyes out for no particular reason (stupid hormones).  Rodney would always look like a deer caught in headlights….”oh no, she’s crying again”.  He was always so kind and caring.  He was a good big brother.      

He was also a good father.  He loved Sheridan so much.  I am so sad for her.  Sad that she won’t be given the time to enjoy the man that her dad was.  Her birthday is next Saturday….She is going to be 12.  My heart is broken for her. 

Even though he and my sister got divorced two years ago, Rodney still remained a part of my life.  He was someone that I turned to when I was looking for references for Grad school.  The letter that he wrote for me was lovely, and heartfelt.  I saved a copy of that letter…I’m glad that I did.  I currently can’t look at it without breaking down, but it truly warms my heart to know how much he cared for me. 

I am shocked and I am sad.  I can't believe that he is gone.  There is not much more I can say. 

You will be missed brother. 

xoxo