not sure I could handle.....

Received an e-mail from a client today. The client is a very nice guy, and I have prepared his joint return (have never met his wife) for the past few years. This year we did a great amount of planning because they were expect twins, and we were going through all the tax/cash flow scenarios concerning his wife working or staying at home. Today he sent an e-mail informing me that his wife delivered twins in early August at 24 weeks, but that one of the boys had passed away the next day. I was in shock. Never in my 22 years did I have to deal with a child's death, but I had to now, as he asked some questions concerning what would happen this year, and next year concerning his taxes.

After some hesitation, and the thought of just using an e-mail response, I decided I must call, give my condolences, tell him we would pray for his family, and answer his questions. We I called and he picked up and we started talking, he was surprisingly more upbeat than I would have thought, and after offering my prayers, we spoke about taxes. I had to ask about getting a SS# for the twins (got for both), but mainly we "talked tax".

After I said goodbye, and hung up, I just sat in my chair. Could I be as calm 3 1/2 months later after such a tragedy? Could I have answered so easily "yes" to the question about getting a SS# for my deceased child? Could I have then discussed other tax matters?

These are also the times when I ask, "Why Lord?" I know there is a plan, but must these steps be taken? Maybe part of the plan is for the strength being shown by the father. I know he "showed" me something during our conversation.

Now for some better news. Their other son is still under 4lbs, but is doing well. I will think about them and pray for them for quite a while.

Also, we have learned that Morgan's friend does not have any cancer. They did find a tumor, but it is benign. This is more of the news I like to hear.

My mom had another treatment yesterday. This one was 5 hours long. She say she is feeling OK, although one of the "side effect" drugs kept her awake all night, so she did not sleep until 8:30am this morning

On the sports, lighter side, my Hurricanes lost again tonight, 3-1 to the Flyers. That is two losses to them, at home, in one week. They really need to do something to get a fire going. If it was not for that 3 goal third period against Tampa, they would be on a long losing streak.

I promise. Christmas decoration pictures soon.

Until the next time.....