thank you Carlos, for the sunset

the fragility of life ceases to amaze me.

as Katie, Chelsea and i drove back to JMU, listening to the lyrics of brand new, i stared out at the magnificent orange sun setting the sky on fire as it sank into the horizon.  i contemplated where i’m going with my life.  i thought about the people i love, the people i miss.  i thought about my daily stresses, of class, of broken bones, of frustrating relationships.  i looked forward at the road before us, and at Katie’s eyes in the rear view mirror, not knowing that i was looking at her concentrated stare.  i tried to catch the beauty of the sun through the trees in the shutter of my camera, but i have a feeling the picture didn’t take.  when the sun had completely gone from the sky, and darkness had seeped through from the far corner of the east, the crescent sliver of the moon tilted towards a single bright star.  i continued to stare out at the sky through the glare from the car windows.  “We’re quiet on the ride, we’re all just waiting to get home. Another week away, my greatest fear.”  the deep breaths i am breathing on this quiet ride go unnoted.  things feel much more calm than they have in a good while.  like things are going to be fine.  like it’s about time i gain some much need some perspective.  “I’m only hoping as time goes, you can forget… You are calm and reposed. Let your beauty unfold.” 

the next morning, the ground was covered in clean white peace. 
thanks for letting us know that you are at peace.

love and prayers to Becky and all who knew and cared for Carlos Gonzales.