I’ve been following Matt Logelin’s blog for about six months now, and every time I click his link my heart sinks. I am overwhelmed by not only this man’s strength, but by his dedication and love for his daughter and his ability to rise to the occasion and be the best father he knows how to be. Only he doesn’t know how to be anything at this point. He is torn between losing one love of his life and gaining another, all in the course of two days. Two days that forever live in his memory as both the worst day and the best day ever.
It’s both humbling and inspiring to read his words, and I will let them do their own justice. I felt though, at the opening of the usually crazy shopping season, that maybe some people would be looking to possibly make a difference in other people’s lives instead of the usual retail insanity that takes place, and stories like Matt’s really tears at my heart strings. And if you don’t want to give directly to Matt and Madeline (why wouldn’t you?) he’s set up his own charity to help families faced with similar situations.
This holiday season is different from any that most of us have experienced in a lifetime. I wonder if in twenty years, when I look back, what will stick with me most: the gift certificate I got to spend at Sephora or the knowledge that $20 went to a little girl’s first Christmas. Did she have a Merry Christmas? I hope so. And I hope that maybe I had a little something to do with it.
If you are interested in learning more about Matt or Madeline, or their charity, go here.
Be thankful, and happy holidays.
