September 30, 2002. It was a sunny, clear day. Just like any other September day. My grandfather had kissed my grandmother good-bye and told her how much he loved her just before going off to work. The day was normal until around early afternoon. My grandfather had not answered his phone, which was not like him. My family became very worried, and their worst nightmares came true later that day. My grandfather's white pick-up truck was found smashed underneath a tractor trailer. My family saw this image on Channel 8 News. Later, the police officer came to my grandmother's house and officially gave the horrible news that everyone suspected. My grandma had lost her other half, the love of her life, and her soulmate. My mom and uncle had lost their father figure. My cousin, brother, and I had lost our grandpa who loved us unconditionally.

I cannot imagine what my family went through, especially my grandma. I was only three years old. I remember him, or bits and pieces of memories I should say. I remember playing Candyland with him. That was our favorite board game. I see pictures of how much we baked in my grandparents' kitchen. We were all so happy. Yet, I also remember my mom's friend taking me into another room because of how much my mom was crying.

One thing that I know kept my family, especially my grandma, going through these tough times was our faith. My grandpa and grandma were strong Christians and loved God. She accepted that he was in God's home, and that he was safe. "He was needed by the Lord," she used to say. Our faith kept my family very strong.

Of course, when you are grieving, you ask Him "Why me?" "Why our family?" "Why did you have to take them away so soon?" In Romans 28, there is a verse that reads: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." There was a reason that my God chose my grandfather to go Home that day. I have learned to 110% accept that. He is stronger, healthier, and is in a better place.

Every time I leave my family or my friends, I make sure to hug them and say I love them. You never know what God has planned for you. He has a plan though.

Every time I am driving behind, next to, or in front of a tractor trailer, I think about him. I feel very uncomfortable and scared. I learned to not remember him this way. I remember him as the other half of my grandma's heart. I learned that he loved the Lord so much and that I will continue worshipping Him just as he did. I learned from the many stories I've been told on how much he loved me and that he spent so much time with me. I learned that my grandpa looked at my dad as a son, and they both loved each other very much. I learned that he had many friends and loved ones. He was such a well-loved man and a loving man as well. He will always be in my heart and memory. I love you so much grandpa. Rest in peace.