Unfortunate reminder

Sometimes life sends us sad reminders and the death of Dallas Police Officer Brian Jackson a little less than a week ago was one of those wake-up calls for me. Jackson was shot while chasing after a illegal immigrant who threatened his ex-girlfriend.

Army of Dad was a cop for about a year and I was a nervous wreck most of that time. The phone ringing at 2 a.m. sent shivers down my spine as I looked at it and reached for it never knowing if it was AoD calling to tell me he was working late or if it was someone else calling to tell me something had happened.

Just a week ago, AoD and I had a big argument. A really big argument and the virtual daggers were flying. I seldom seriously wish ill on someone, but the little devil on my shoulder was suggesting all sorts of unkind outcomes for him. Then, I heard the news Monday morning about Officer Jackson. It softened my heart. Driving down the road and listening to talk radio discussing the incident and I just sobbed while I drove. I felt so bad for his widow of only a few months. I just kept thinking about those newlyweds and envisioning what it must have been like - putting off having kids for a few years so they could enjoy their time together and get ready for a baby and now she will never have a part of him with her and I know the regret must be enormous. After 9/11, I knew life was too short and is such a gift, I wanted another piece of AoD to have with me in case anything ever happened to him. I look at my children and see him in their faces, their mannerisms and their love. I feel so much pity for this woman who is a widow too soon. She buried her husband Friday.

Hail Mary, full of grace
Our Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women,
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb,
Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death.
Amen.