I am so sorry that it's been so long since I visited this memorial. Thank you for taking the time to light a candle for Andrew.
This first Christmas, I'm sure, is one that won't likely be forgotton. In fact, that entire first year is one that I look back on and question how I made it through each day. I don't remember specific holidays and entire months seem to have simply never occurred. I suppose in my case, it was a sense of denial or perhaps even shock, but the true test for me, was the second year. (Andrew died 3 years and 5 months ago) That was when I knew that he was gone and that my anger, denial, fear, pain and need to bargain with God simply were not positive things in my life. I also began to accept the void that I still hold in my heart, and I found myself speaking very openly about Andrew. I don't want him to be forgotton but I also know now, that God needed him more than I did. That still doesn't always make sense to me, but I truly do try to comprehend the status of life and death and eternal life.
Each time I look at the pictures of Chance and read his story, I feel so much pain for you, his family. He is such a handsome young man, almost striking. It's sad to learn of such innocent lives that are abruptly brought to an end secondary to alcohol, drugs and/or careflessness. One snap decision and a life is gone.
I aplogize for the length of my text; I have a tendency to get trigger happy on the computer when I'm feeling the need to express myself.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers, especially during this special time of year. May God ease your pain as you wait for wonderful signs from Chance in Heaven. He is superb and in time, you will realize that. For now, I offer my condolences and wishes for a very safe holiday season.
Debi Collins http://andrew-collins.last-memories.com
