Loss
What is supposed to be the happiest time of year is turning into the worst time of the year for some people I know. In the last couple of days both of an old friend’s parents have passed away. They had long-term illnesses that finally took them on the same day. It was a testimony to their love for each other I think that they left this earth on the same day. I hurt for their daughter, though. I lost my parents a year apart and thought I was going to fall apart. I can’t imagine what she is going through.
Then today I learned through Facebook that an old friend who had been injured in a car wreck on Halloween had died today. I grew up with his brother. He always stepped in when his brother and I were arguing and made things right. It’s hard to believe he is gone. I hurt for his family. I knew them all so well years ago.
Another friend is suffering. She and her husband had to carry out the wishes of her brother-in-law and basically take him off life support. It’s so easy to say that we know that this or that is what we would want when the situation isn’t upon us but when it is at our door it is hard to actually do it. She knew what he wanted but I can’t imagine having to say the words or sign the papers.
Today I cry tears for all of these families. I cry for their pain. I cry for my own. It stirs a lot of memories. I don’t know that I would wish that kind of pain on my worst enemy. It’s a pain that leaves a hole in your heart for eternity. My prayer is that God will bring peace to these families knowing that their loved ones are no longer suffering. That is what helped me when I lost my parents. I knew they would never hurt anymore and that was a comfort I treasured. I pray that they get through these days the best they can and that they have support throughout it all.
