Grieving the Loss, Sunshine After the Storm: And They Came

I looked out over the church. The family was seated, close family friends were seated and people began to come forward to express their condolences. I had been in California for the past 10 years, therefore many of the people I did not know. But then I began to see familiar faces. I was comforted by their presence. I don't remember much of what they said to me, but I remember their presence. For those of you who worry about what to say to someone who is grieving, remember this. It is not so much your words people need, it is simply you.

And more came; familiar faces, new faces. And then "they" came. The students that George had taught, the football players that he had coached, his fellow teachers, the coaching staff, the administrators. They came by the bus loads and car loads. And as his students came forward with broken hearts and tears streaming down their faces, unable to speak even if they wanted to, my heart broke for them. And I found myself offering them words of comfort, a smile, hugs, student after student. And they came, and they came. A few times I was able to glance to the back of the church and noticed the line was all the way down the aisle and out the door. And my heart was overflowing with love and compassion for these young students who had lost a mentor that they loved so dearly.

George had only been teaching and coaching these kids for two years. But the impact he had on them in that short period of time was absolutely amazing. I was so proud of him and so thankful that he had made a difference in the lives of so many people in such a short period of time.

The church was filled to capacity and people were having to stand outside the doors. I had held my tears in check all this time. And now it was time for the service to begin.

I often wonder, if George was able to have that kind of impact on people in his short 29 years, just what kind of impact would he have made had he lived into his 70's or 80's? And of course, I've wondered why God would take him when he was touching so many lives. I'll not know the answers to those questions in this lifetime. Maybe in the next one I will.

I am reminded once again of the importance and urgency of making every single day count. What are we doing today that will make a difference in someone's future? We all have something to give, even when we are in the midst of suffering. I challenge you to do something today for someone else. For it is in giving of ourselves that we are blessed. Remember friends, there is

Sunshine After the Storm

Blessings

Betsy

P.S. Remember too, that I welcome your thoughts and comments!