Memories....

I have never been sure how the seating arrangements for the memorial service were decided upon.  I just know that I ended up being seated on the front row with the couple that had been riding with George the day he died, George's wife and little daughter, and some very close friends of George's who had become like family to him over the past two years.  My daughter and her family, my husband, my mom and step-dad and my sister were somewhere behind me.  

There were five speakers: George's dad, George's father-in-law, two of George's closest friends, and the pastor.  Each spoke from their heart. Tears  escaped down my cheeks as each shared their memories of George.  And there were times the memories they shared made me smile, and yes, even laugh a time or two.  Good memories are such a blessing during times of grief!

One thing that will always stand out in my memory was looking at the team during the service.  They were seated in the choir loft which was directly behind the pulpit.  The team George had loved coaching so much.  I couldn't stop looking at them and feeling such compassion for these "tough" football players with young and tender hearts.  To see the grief on all their faces and tears trickling down many of their faces was just almost more than I could bear.  The "mom" in me wanted to make it all better.  

Sometimes there are things that happen to us or to those we love that we wish we could fix.  Unfortunately we can't always do that.  We are not promised a life free of suffering and pain.  But what God does promise His children is strength for the journey.   

Speaking of journeys, I had one to take the next day, and it was going to be a beautiful day for a ride.  I look forward to having you come along, and remember, there is

Sunshine After the Storm

Blessings

Betsy