Maybe it’s the rain, maybe it’s stress, maybe I really don’t like being told it’s time to be thankful…right…NOW! I have a lot to be thankful for, but I’m a little weepy and stubborn today.
In reality I know why. It’s because I heard last night that one of my high school friends lost his mom to cancer yesterday. It stinks. I love this family and though I wasn’t personally close to Rich’s mom, I knew her, and their entire family (Richie was one of six) was one I cared for deeply. Rich’s dad was my bus driver all through school. They let all of us come to their farm and they shared everything, any time, whatever, whenever. Good people.
It’s amazing how the holidays can so often become a target for death. How does a family celebrate Thanksgiving when they are mourning so cruelly? I don’t know that they do.
No, this isn’t my battle, it’s not my mom, I’m not there and I won’t be going up for the funeral. It doesn’t change anything about my life, but I know what it feels like. I’ve been there and I hate cancer and it’s devouring ways.
10 years ago I was facing this much closer to home. It feels like the same tears are falling again this morning.
However…
I will be thankful.
Despite the ache, I will sing.
Despite the emptiness I will give.
Despite the memories of things that will never be again, I will rejoice in what can never be taken away.
And I will hope…
because nothing is impossible with a God like mine.
Dear God, bless the Ultz family today. Refresh them, as they have so faithfully refreshed others and keep alive that spark of joy that they have carried for so long. Your strength will serve them well and I trust You to be all they need.
Weep with those who weep….joy comes in the morning. I can understand why it makes you feel so hurt for them. Have a good Thanksgiving.
Mary, you always have been able to seek the right words for everything…. I Love You girl……