Too Soon

Kitty-corner across the street is a tan house, owned by a man who has always been the life of the party.  He has long been one of my friendliest neighbors, and he's always been quick with a smile or to offer help when I've bitten off more than I can chew in the yard. 

Just before sunset yesterday, I heard his motorcycle start, and I caught a glimpse of him leaving the neighborhood.  I remember thinking it would have been a great night for a ride.  The heat had just broken, and it was shaping up to be a beautiful evening. 

He never made it home. 

Around 2:00 this morning, his motorcycle went into a ditch and hit a culvert.  He was thrown and found unresponsive less than half a mile from home.  He was pronounced dead a short while later at the local hospital. 

I can't imagine what his family must be going through right now.  He's married with three almost-grown kids and a beloved granddaughter.  All I can do is pray for them, and I'd like to ask that you do the same. 

He was forty-three.  No matter how you look at it, that's just too soon.