Remembrance

A morning of  anticipation.  My oldest son was going for his driving test.  Hopefully, by 9:30 that day I would have a new driver in the family.  One less child who needed me for transportation.  I really didn't mind driving any of my kids anywhere they needed to go.  But it was a milestone.  Someone else could stop at the store for milk or juice.  Someone else in the family could make the run to the soccer field.  Yes. This was a positive moment.  I was proud and sure that he would be holding that new license soon. 

We waited in the lobby and tried to act calm.  Then it was his turn.  I tried not to look.  I prayed that God would guide him and keep him calm.  I knew that if he failed, life would go on.  He would try again.  He would drive. 

In moments that seemed like hours, I had a happy boy with a brand new license in his hand. Back to the parking lot.  Do you want to drive?  I sit in the passenger seat.   As the car turns on, the radio springs to life.  It's the voice of Peter Jennings.  But wait.  Why is Peter Jennings voice on the radio at 9:45 am on a weekday morning. 

My son reaches for the radio buttons.  No news station for him.  Wait.  I want to hear this.  Foreboding begins to creep into the beautiful fall morning.  The story begins to unfold. The unthinkable happens. It continues to happen.

When we arrive home, the TV goes on.  My son wants to go to school.  He has a new license and wants to drive.  I go to the farm to feed the animals.  A late breakfast because of the morning appointment.  I call my husband.  Have you seen  the news, or heard the radio?  More is happening.  It is inconceivable.  Not here.  Not in  America.

I call the schools.  They may let the kids go home.  There is no plan in place for this situation.  There is no reality.  We cling to the Lord.  We pray.  Come and get your children if you think its best.  We are trying to stay calm.

I pick up the kids.  I am not alone.  Many parents, with strained expressions have chosen to gather their chicks too.  Teachers are glad.  They want to leave too.  My new driver will bring his sister home.  The school has gathered the older students together for prayer.   I am glad I have a new driver. 

The unknown takes on a  new meaning. We pray.