“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to pluck up what has been planted; a time to kill and a time to heal; a time to break down and a time to build up; a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance; a time to throw away stones and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek and a time to lose; a time to keep and a time to throw away; a time to tear and a time to sew; a time to keep silence and a time to speak; a time to love and a time to hate; a time for war and a time for peace.”
Our first trip included spending time with my parents who now live in an assisted living facility. It certainly seemed strange to visit them at this new address, but we were most pleased with their improved state of health and pleasant room and to see them adjusting to this new lifestyle. It was with mixed emotions we joined other family members in dismantling the homestead, as we have known it. Tears, laughs and stories were shared as we divided heirlooms and treasures. We also visited my sister and brother in-law who were coping with his last days of a four-year struggle with colon cancer. What strength they both have exhibited during these years while teaching lessons about living into dying to us all. With heavy hearts we returned to South Carolina knowing we would soon be back in Ohio. But, the call came only a few days later and we made plans to join family and friends in celebrating John’s life.
Although the skies were often gray and misty during this second trip to Ohio, Ron and I saw rainbows several times along the way. The light that reflected through tears when acts of love and concern gave comfort and peace seemed to create them. As did carefully selected music and words that offered hope for the days to come. How Can I Keep from Singing still rings in my mind and heart when sadness returns.
During this season, I became deeply aware that it is family, friends and faith that give us the strength and love to continue the journey. It has become a time not only of self-discovery as I admit it difficult to face my own mortality, but also a time to make sure that my own legacy is shaped by the Micah’s admonition to:
4 comments:
Thank you for this beautiful, honest, and touching reflection. You and your family will be in my heart and my prayers during this time of difficult yet precious and sacred seasons.
Thank you for sharing. May we all find such strength and love on our own journeys.
thank you, Jean. With images and emotion, you take us with you. this is a beautiful tribute to the wonder of family and the realities of life, You are all in my prayers. S
I have missed you on "A Pilgrim's Perspective", and now I know why. My heartfelt condolences go out in this time of grieving for your brother-in-law. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and emotions as they provoke serious reflections on my own part. May the presence of the Spirit and the love of relatives and friends continue to support and uplift you.
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