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I Miss My Son

  • On October 17, 1996, my son Matthew was coming home from a sport banquet that wa sponsored by his school, Jim Elliott Christian Academy. He was a really good basketball player and loved to play soccer for another school. He and I did not see eye to eye on a lot of things, but when it came to sports, we had plenty to talk about. The night before the banquet, he and I got into an argument over something so petty, that I don't even remember what it was. We just argued. At the time, I was working for a family entertainment place. You know, bowling, arcades, video games, etc. I was the lead server getting some beer for a customer, when I got a phone call from my wife at work. Matthew was in an accident and I had better get over to the hospital. She would meet me there. I know my wife and she sounded paniced. I got to the hospital as fast as I could, and was told that he had passed away. The very night I wanted to tell him I was sorry about our argument, now I will never get the chance. He was my oldest son at 17. The young man who was driving with was cut off by another car and it was very cold that night. He hit a patch of black ice, lost control, and wrappped his car around a telephone pole, on the passenger side. My son was killed instantly. I couldn't blame the young man who was driving. He didn't do anything wrong. But the other car didn't even stop to see what had happened. A couple of days later, the insurance company offered us money for my son's death. We asked if this money was going to bring him back? We didn't even want the money. But, they sent it to us anyway. I asked my wife what are we gonna do with it? She suggested to buy the things that Matt would've wanted us to have. So, we bought a house. Later, I remembered that my son always wanted me to have a motorcycle. He said,"dad, why don't you go and buy your V-Star that you always wanted?" I told him we couldn't afford it. He said, "when you do finally get it, I want a ride! He had talked about how much we both loved eagles too. I asked my wife, in his memory, can we buy a V-Star and get it painted the way I want. At first, she was reluctant, you know how wives are when it comes to money in the house. (lol) But with a little persuasion and lots of begging (lol) she agreed. I bought a used 2002 V-Star 1100. Then, I had it painted orange. On the front fender, there is an Eagle head. On each side of the gas tank, there is a picture of an eagle with its wings spread and talons open. Under the wings, I had Matt's name put there. and now, my bike is a tribute to my oldest and dearest son, Matthew. I carried him for 17years, now he's carrying me. RIP, Matt. I love and miss you so, so much...........

Comments

2 comments
  • BikerKat2004 Condolences to you and your family, things like this happen so quickly. I tell my daughter all the time that I love her. You just never know.
  • Devilson A very nice way to honor your son. I can only wish the pain of your loss is manageable.