Today was the memorial for a friend who was killed in a car accident outside of Pretoria, South Africa last Thursday. This has been weighing heavy on my heart since I heard the news last Thursday. Even after a week I have no idea what to say. I feel so badly for Deon. I cannot image what he must be going through to lose his wife this way. I hope that he finds a way to deal with it, I know he worshiped her.
Charleen Joubert
This is a photo that I had taken in December 2006 at a memorable meal our family shared with Charleen and Deon in Centurion, South Africa.
I am glad that I had the pleasure to spend the day with her last autumn when they were visiting the states. We went for lunch and wine tastings. It was not a particularly nice day, as we were having unseasonably cold weather, and the poor girl was freezing. I am thankful that I was able to spend some time with her alone and get to know her better.
The most unfortunate thing is that these accidents are not at all uncommon in South Africa. This one was due to an improperly secured lorry. I will never forget my first trip to South Africa when it was reported, after a holiday weekend, that there were thousands of auto related fatalities. My husband lost his brother in a similar accident many years earlier.
South Africa is a gorgeous country, but life is cheap, and that makes me so sad.
Best wishes to all those traveling there for the FIFA World Cup hopefully there will be a safe trip for everyone.
happy picture of some busy bees in the garden today
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
So sorry to hear about the loss of your friend, Kristen. Losing a friend, a loved one is the most difficult thing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your husband.
Thank you Charles for your kind words!