Ross Bennett & Jessica Davila

I received a text on Sunday from my dear friend, Ross. It was not a fun text, like he and I had been sending to each other over the weekend. It simply stated that his fiance’ and the love of his life, Jessica had been drugged while at a bachelorette party in Austin, Texas. She was in critical condition. He was rushing to her side and asked for prayers. Of course, I prayed. All of his friends prayed. I was so happy for them when they got engaged. Such a cute couple. Ross is a “big ‘ole boy” and Jessica is a little bitty thing. Couldn’t weigh more than 100 pounds; while he is well over six feet tall. They filled a room with their love.

The next time I received information on Jessica’s status was when Ross posted on his Facebook page that Jessica had passed away. I was driving home from College Station, when my 16 year old read the news. My heart literally hurt. Shock, sadness and anger all shot through me. Shock that this could happen to such a beautiful and vibrant girl. Sadness for the pain that Ross and the families were going through and a little bit of selfishness on my part that I was just getting to know this amazing woman. The anger was directed at the so called human being that felt the need to slip something into this beautiful girls’ drink. Ross’ post brought tears to my eyes. I always knew what a wonderful man he was, this just made everyone else realize it, too. Here are his final words to his sweet Jessica (no editing was done, other than I added a letter to a few words):

“My heart is broken for the loss of my best friend but I know I have to stay strong and be there for the family. Jessica you are an inspiration to thousands and I am blessed to have been at your side for the time we had. I love u so much and just want to hold you. God has to have amzing plans for you as his angel I miss you and will always love u. Thanks to everyone for the thoughts and prayers please be with the family and remember how special Jessica was in all of our lives.”

Be sure to let your loved ones know they are loved every day. They are only here for a short time.

I had the honor, privilege, yet heart wrenching task of putting together some grad gift bracelets for a beautiful Mother who is experiencing some of the same emotions, but in a way that I cannot comprehend. You see, her son should have walked that stage today, but did not. She should be experiencing and sharing this achievement with him and his fellow classmates, but could not. God had plans for him to walk a bigger stage 6 years ago at the tender age of 11 ~ HEAVEN.

His name was Brody.

He loved baseball.

He was #7.

And his Mom obviously loves you all and wants you to remember!