Terror Looming Beyond the Bayou

  After a couple of days of unusual weather, we seem to be on track to getting back to normal.  While the worst of the stuff stayed north of the Bayou, we did experience a good bit of strong winds.  We were blessed that was the extent of our woes.  

  While out on the pier checking the little skiff, I noticed that somewhere nearby was still obviously "under the gun".  It was not even noon and dark clouds loomed over the pines and black gum trees to the northeast. This gave an ominous feeling even though the sun was shining behind me to the south.  Something just did not feel right.   I was right.  Something was not right.  In fact, something was wrong...very, very wrong.  

  After returning to the Little Bayou House, I received word that right where it seemed those dark clouds hung, a friend's grandson was missing.  Hours had passed with no word from the youngster. He was supposed to be staying with a friend and his folks thought all was well. Not so.  Even thought I do not know the full story behind his disappearance, I can only imagine the terror that his entire family endured.  Hours upon hours passed without word of his whereabouts. No answers on his phone, no word from his friends, no call home.  A 13 year old child was missing.  Terrifying.  Heartbreaking.  Sickening.  With nothing else I could do, I prayed.

  Later, as the day was coming to a close, I noticed that the sky had lightened in the east.  At that same time, I received word that the young lad had been found and was safe at home with his family.  It seems that it was all a misunderstanding somewhere down the line but the gut wrenching experience for my friend was very real. It is every parent's and grandparent's nightmare.  

  Parents...hug your kids this evening and let them know you love them.  At the same time, instill in them the need to keep in touch with you throughout their time away from you.  Be insistent that they call you. Get to know their friends.  Get to know their friends' parents.  Be the parent that cares,  Keep on their case about who, what, where, when. Set rules. Make them abide by the rules or face the consequences.  Yes, it is tough to be a strict parent but knowing the heartache that comes otherwise, it is well worth it.  

  While this incident was resolved in the best way possible, it could have been far worse.  Tonight, I will pray that no parent ever has to experience what my friend did today.  I can only imagine...I can only imagine.