I just got this news Monday afternoon. Mr. O’s uncle died today. He had a long battle with thyroid cancer. I was in shock because I had recently asked how his uncle was doing. He was doing pretty well actually. He was in the hospital for some minor treatment.

I don’t consider myself to be very good at handling this kind of stuff. I don’t know what to say. There is nothing to say really. I even told Mr. O that I didn’t know what to say other than I’m shocked. I offered to help him in any way he needs. He’s not one to ask for help, and now he’s trying to be strong for his mother and aunt.

I have next to no experience with death and funerals. I remember when I was 8 or 9 that my dad’s mother died. His father died earlier. When my grandfather died about 6 years ago, the family didn’t even have a funeral or memorial service. So there was no closure there. Lots of people in the town were upset that they didn’t get a chance to pay their respect. I don’t blame them.

I don’t know that he’ll even think to read my blog with everything going on. I just want to be of help to someone who has done so much for me. My thoughts and heart are with you, Mr. O.

In the words of my adopted tradition:

Baruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, dayan he-emet.