Last weekend I was in Wisconsin at my friend's lake home. I go with a few friends every year to enjoy the fall colors. We spend time hiking, eating, shopping and relaxing. We all enjoy playing games. It is often the last chance to enjoy warm weather before fall really sets in. It is a beautiful place!
This year was unusual because two of my friends experienced life-changing news within the same 12 hour period. My friend Deb's first grandchild was born during the night (on Thursday). My friend Sherri's dad passed away a few hours later that same night. He wasn't well, but it still came as a surprise. To make matters worse, Sherri's brother-in-law has been diagnosed with an unusual cancer only a few weeks back. He is quite ill and needs to be in Rochester this week to determine what treatment, if any, might be most helpful.
The beginning of life and the end of life...both events make us think about what happens in the middle of life. It makes me think about what's important...and what I am doing about it. I am so happy for my friend who is a new grandma. I am so sad for my friend who is grieving the loss of her father. More importantly, I'm thankful that God has given me friends and family who I can share life with. I have once again been reminded that life is so fragile and that I am so blessed! I am also very secure in knowing that God is there smiling with us in the happy times and showing us mercy, compassion and comfort in the painful times. It's a great thing.
It was good just to be together last weekend. In spite of everything going on, we had a great time, laughed a lot and felt comfort in just being together. Thanks Sherri, for your kind hospitality. We are praying for you.
2 comments:
I totally understand this life and death experience. My grandpa died the day Ella was born. I was in labor when my dad came in and told me he had passed...a very strange thing for my entire family.
how is sherri? I will be praying fo rher.
We too have experienced death over the past few days and months. My sister-in-law has lost her nephew a few months ago and now her father just passed away a couple of days ago. Life is so fragile, but it is a comfort to know that God will give us strength to go on midst the saddness of losing a loved one!
Miss you!
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