Chandler James Hanson

This post is probably the hardest one I've ever done.  But, I want to have a part in my cousin being remembered, and someday, when I finally print my blog, I want this in there.

Chandler, my cousin, died January 5th 2012.  He was only 15 years old.  He was too young to die and I miss him every day.  There are many thoughts and emotions that come along with this post, even two months later.  You see, Chandler committed suicide.  We don't know why, and we certainly don't understand it.  He was a happy, I mean seriously happy, kid.  I really can't remember him any other way.  Chandler had some struggles in life that made school difficult.  He was an innocent kid and didn't always understand the consequences of his actions, but to any person he was completely normal.  Most people didn't have any idea of his struggles.
  When my mom called and told me of his death, I was in complete shock.  And then the pain and sorrow hit.  The next day I was packed and headed to Boise with my girls.  What happened next was nothing short of a miracle.  Once in Boise, and with all the family together, there was a peace that came.  We knew and still know that Chandler was continuing his mission.  His mission here on earth was done, but there was more for him to do elsewhere.  Our family had some sweet experiences, and are things I will never forget.  
   This young man touched so many people's lives.  Why he had to leave the world in this way, I will never know.  But, I do know the life that he lived.  At his funeral there were around 1,000 people!  It was standing room only.  The entire chapel, gym, and stage were packed.  So many people loved him!  Kids flowed into my aunt and uncle's home each day to tell us stories of Chandler.  They would stay for hours, because of the peace felt at their home.  It was really quite amazing.
  I was in Boise for about two weeks before coming home.  I was exhausted and still trying to fully grasp what had just happened within our family.  We will forever feel the loss of his life.  Things won't be the same when we get together.  I still, as we pray for their family each night, say his name, and then remember he is gone.  I hear a song on the radio and remember.  I see his picture and remember.
  How grateful I have been though for the love of my Savior and the knowledge I have of eternal families.  What a blessing for my aunt and uncle to know that Chandler will always be their son.  He is tied to them for eternity!  They have lost him on earth, but they will be reunited.  We have a loving Heavenly Father that cherishes families and has given us amazing blessings to protect them.

 I love you Chan, more than I ever realized.  You were a good kid and my girls loved playing with you.  Your life is an example to me and I hope that when my life is done I will have touched as many people and had as much of an influence as you did in such a short time. 
  

1996-2012