August 26, 2025
It’s 11:11 p.m. on the night of what I thought would be the closing chapter of my life’s greatest trauma.
I should be writing about what happened in the courtroom today, but instead, I’m writing about what didn’t.
Yesterday, as I was making a quick run to the grocery store for some last-minute dinner items, my phone rang. I hadn’t even entered the checkout line yet when “The Prosecutor’s Office” flashed across the screen.
My heart skipped a beat as I thought, Why is the Prosecutor’s office calling me now? Are they calling to remind me of the hearing tomorrow?
I quickly answered the phone, trying not to sound worried. After the pleasantries were exchanged, my advocate proceeded to say, “I’m sorry to inform you, but the judge has a scheduling conflict and needs to reschedule tomorrow’s hearing.”
“Hello?” she said. I held the phone in disbelief, struggling to find words. “Of all hearings to be cancelled, why this one?” I asked.
She apologized and again explained that there was a scheduling conflict on the judge’s calendar.
I expressed my disappointment and explained that my sister traveled from out of town to be with us. My brother and other family members also took vacation days to support us. I wanted to get this over with!
She said she understood and continued speaking, but my mind was a million miles away as I tried to gather myself together. “When is the next hearing date?” I asked.
She fumbled around for a few moments and then said, “September 8th at 9 a.m.”
I stood in silence for a moment.
September 8th is the anniversary of my mother’s passing. I sighed, tears in my eyes, and told her, “Okay, we’ll be there,” before ending the call.
I cannot believe this.
