Life. Death. Joy. Sadness. Loss. Gain. Grief. Memory.
Loss and death are part of life. Life changes. Strength fails. How do we manage to go on? Memories are vibrant, become bittersweet, than mellow into precious moments. Joy seems difficult to reclaim in the midst of such extreme sadness. How do we find our way? Those who walk with God, and live this life as believers in Christ, go on to their eternal reward but leave a huge hole in our hearts. We find joy in knowing that they have gained so much more than can be imagined here on earth. It was good to sail awhile together and we are thankful for their support and love. We rejoice that their struggles are over and their pain is replaced with wholeness and new life in the presence of God. That does not end our sadness and grief, it only eases the pain of saying farewell for now. There really is never a straight timeline of emotions. There is a place in our boat which will always remain empty but we must sail on without them. Take heart in the love which they shared and the moments of remembrance will continue to bring blessings.
