Happiness and Sadness

A little bit of a catch-up: My sister's operation went so well that I believe it was a miracle. So many people were praying for her and God in His infinite mercy is healing her. The doctors were able to remove all her cancer and we hope that it has not spread. The doctors were very optomistic as to the outcome -- they don't think it has spread. We will know for certain this week sometime. She is doing so well. Thank you all for your prayers.

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Today we went to a funeral -- a very sad funeral -- for a young man, 26 years old, as old as my son. They went to school together. Their children know our children. I remember when he was a little boy-- he always looked so cute with a big smile for everyone. --Then one night leaving a restaurant, he got into an argument with another man. All he wanted to do was exit his parking space. "Can you please let us get out?" The other man arguing with someone else pulled a gun and shot him and his wife. My heart broke when I heard it was him.

There were so many people at his funeral, a testament to his love of his family and friends. A testament to the respect taught by his parents towards others. A testament to how much we all loved this young man and his family.

At the funeral, his mother cried inconsolably -- her cries breaking the warm stillness of the afternoon as we all stood and listened to the Pastor speak for strength and guidance through this difficult time. My heart again breaks for her.

At the end of the service, the doves were sent flying as we all watched with a heavy, heavy sadness as they flew first this way and circled around the other way staying near his coffin. And in this quietness as we all looked toward the sky the sweet melodic tune of windpipes could be heard off in the distance as a fireman was being laid to rest. Then a child laughed as the birds continued to circle. I'm sure the those birds made him happy. This made me smile, because here was a child to remind us that we were still alive to tell our beloved family and friends how much we love them and enjoy the life God blesses us with each and every day. We won't ever forget this young man. He was a blessing to his parents and brothers and sisters and to all of us. God bless them all.