In the wake of tragedy

People never fail to amaze me. But this time, I mean it in a good way.

This past week has been such a fog of tragedy and sadness, but it's also been refreshing and amazing. I've seen some really astounding people come out of the woodwork, bend over backward for a family whose loss is unimaginable. I've watched total strangers gladly give up meals out and morning lattes in order to donate to charity. I met bloggers and friends who flew in from all over the country and Canada to pay tribute to a little girl whose story compelled them to be there. And I've received emails from random people wanting to know what they could do, willing to do anything.

While I don't consider Maddie's services to be blog material, I will say that Mike and Heather did a beautiful job; their strength and courage to speak was inspiring and uplifting. Heather had us all laughing, something only she could do in a moment as heavy as that. I could never imagine myself as graceful in the wake of such sorrow.

For those of you who have been so generous as to donate to March of Dimes or otherwise in Maddie's name, thank you. I encourage people to continue the spirit of generosity and kindness that has given even a cynic like me a certain amount of reverence.

Not that I've lost my dry, sarcastic touch. My world's been shaken, and uncomfortably so, yes. But I will undoubtedly regain my bad attitude in no time at all, after all, Heather would expect nothing less of us.

But for now, you know, thank you.

Comments

[Mel, A Dramatic Mommy]

The past few days have me off kilter and not sure which way is up. It's been moving to see people from all over come together and take generosity to the extreme.

[La Petite Belle]

I love your sense of humor. I'm so sorry for your loss.

[Kate]

I hear ya Megan. I've been moved to tears at how this online community has banded together. It comforting to know that there are so many good people still in this world.

[Jamie]

Yeah for this internet world - We done good.

[schmutzie]

You are being featured on Five Star Friday!
http://www.fivestarfriday.com/2009/04/five-star-friday-edition-50.html

[Joisey Girl]

Our son was born prematurely almost 40 years ago. He, too, had to stay in the hospital for 68 days. But, we were fortunate and we will be celebrating his 40th birthday with him this year. My heart hurts for you. We also had to bury a daughter. I gave birth at home in my 7th month of pregnancy. You will heal. I promise. But, never fully. But, you will laugh again in time.

[Rhea]

I love seeing the purple all over the Blogosphere and Twitter. And how everyone has come together for Maddie.

It's true that something this tragic can bring out so much goodness in others. It's truly amazing.