Connections in Grief Part 2
Lessons in Loss, Love and Resilience
So many connections that have become a part of my story, I am sure you have the same in your journey. Some you may not realize yet. For us it is part of our Post Traumatic Growth story. Here is another new connection in grief.
It was six months after Alaina’s murder when I went to a small conference group I was a part of called Vistage. We had a speaker coming who’s focus was on Emotional Intelligence.
Prior to this session, our group leader Paul would always let the presenter know my story just so they knew depending on the topic coming up and the stories that accompanied. This time he did not.
Bob Anderson was presenting with such energy and passion I was absorbed in the content. Bob then says…
“Before we go to break, I will explain about my emotional intelligence. It was my 50th birthday and I had the day free to do what I wanted, so I rented a Ferrari and was literally driving like I love to do. My wife Heather calls and asks me to pull over so she can tell me something. After additional coaxing, I pull over and get out of the car. She proceeds to tell me about the Sandy Hook shooting. I began kicking and banging on the car as I was so emotional to hear this news.”
The room of others in attendance were all looking over to me during this story that went on a bit longer. He explained, his wife knew how emotional he gets and they used to not only live just down the street, but Bob used to coach sports in the community at Sandy Hook. So this was very close to home for him.
He told us to take 10 minutes, and I am not sure how many dry eyes were in the room.
I let everyone leave then I approached Bob to give him an Alaina’s Voice Foundation bracelet and introduce myself. He gave me a big bear hug and apologized repeatedly while in tears. I replied, “Bob, I feel like we were supposed to meet today.”
Bob and I over 6 years later speak frequently, he’s become my speaking mentor and has stayed at our home a couple of times when he’s been speaking in the area.
I cherish the friendship that has developed between Bob and I. The photo below is of Bob and me in March of 2025 in Napa.
Excited, as I have recently received the front cover design of my book that is coming out called Always November, Lessons in Loss, Love and Resilience. Subscribe here or send me an email, Many have emailed me with their stories. Some are now getting calendared on for the podcast.
