Sometimes Life Just Blindsides You

Sean and I are trying to recover after receiving some very very sad news. While on facebook, I saw my friend's latest update:

The light in my life has gone out. Doug passed away this afternoon. Rest in peace, I'll love you forever.

I thought it was some horrible joke, but the comments that followed were sentiments and prayers. I called our friend Robbin, and she confirmed this unexpected event. It appears he had suffered a heart attack.

We first met Doug last summer, when he directed Sean in MacBeth. He earned Sean's respect as one of the best directors he's worked with, and everyone we met agreed he was a fantastic actor and singer as well. Next weekend, My Fair Lady was set to open with him as Henry Higgins. I was very much looking forward to working with him in October in Moon Over Buffalo.

But our hearts are going out to his partner of 30 years, Bruce. Every time he spoke about Doug, you could see the love and admiration they had for one another. They weren't married, though they wanted to be, but after living together for so long they had retained, if not improved their love, which is sadly too rare in this day and age. That love extended beyond their own relationship to their friends. Doug was always ready with a hug to greet you. We did not know him long, which we regret, but, like all others who knew him, we loved him.

I'm sorry to be such a downer, but it's such a shock...it's hard to believe. What hit me hardest was looking at Bruce's profile. The status update from before is at the head of his page, but right beneath it was a note from Doug that was posted yesterday:

Don't forget....trash comes later today.

Just your everyday reminder. Now he's gone, just like that.

So hug your loved ones, tell them you love them, don't let anger hang over you. Life is too short, and it's hardly ever fair. Pray to God and thank Him for your blessings, ask Him to watch over those you love.