Coach Duddy & Family,
There isn't a whole lot anyone can say to you right now that will bring comfort to your broken heart. Every loss is tragic, but when a parent losses a child, there can be no greater pain.
I can't express enough the sorrow that we share for you and your family at this time. Our hope is that you can find comfort in our Lord, Jesus Christ and lean on Him during this time and the many times to come that you will need to be held. He will hold you in the palm of His hand and ease your pain if you believe in Him and have Faith.
I lost my father two years ago. When I knew my dad wasn't going to make it and I was very distraught, my dad pulled me close and he comforted me as he prepared to go Home. He rubbed my head and he hugged me as tight as he could and he whispered to me, "I've loved you from the moment you were born and I'll love you as long as time exists.
This is God's plan and His plan is perfect." He looked at me straight in the eyes wiped my tears and then said, "Have Faith my son. Have Faith my boy." He only lived another day and a half after that. In the days and weeks that followed, I would shake my head as I thought about him going Home. Anger, sadness, joy... over and over and over. It was like a roller coaster of emotions. I wanted off and I prayed for peace in my heart.
Why him? Why now? Why!?! About a month passed and I decided it was time to enter his house and begin that task. He lived alone and his home was waiting for me to clean it out. He told me where I could find all of his documents and so that was the first place I went. There was an envelope. Within it was a piece of paper that said the following: "HAVE FAITH! Having Faith means being able to live with unanswered questions, sometimes tough ones.
Faith, doesn't answer these questions, however, Faith gives you the courage to endure and survive without the answers. For those who Believe, no explanation is necessary and for those who don't, No explanation is possible. Have Faith my son. Have Faith MY boy. I'll love you ALWAYS!" I know words are just that, but I hope this can help you Coach, and anyone else who is struggling. I will tell you that I still shake my head and I still cry, but I remember the gift that my dad left me in his words and on that piece of paper. We are all here for you friend. Your boy rests with the One who loves him most. - Have Faith and God Bless.
With a heavy heart,
Vincent Oliver
Head Coach
Men's & Women's Track & Field
Franciscan University of Steubenville
