I wrote this a few days ago before the shooting in Connecticut, but devastatingly, it is all too similar:
This morning I found out a friend’s mom passed away last night. This is the 6th (young) friend of mine that has had a parent, husband or other close family member die suddenly in the last 4 months. All which died much. too. young.
My soul weeps for them.
For my friends, this sobering holiday season has been more of a 'Hell on Earth' opposed to 'Peace on Earth,' as harsh realities and unexpected time has been lost with the dearest people to them.
So in honor of them; Let's make a pact to hug our family and friends every time we see them, to settle our quarrels, and most importantly- to shut up and take the time to listen to what they have to say. Be less personal focused and more outwardly focused. Let us not just say, but show that we love them. Remember that life is a gift and we cannot expect tomorrow.
This passage from Job 2:11-13 comes to mind:
When Job’s three friends, Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar, heard about all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him. When they saw him from a distance, they could hardly recognize him; they began to weep aloud, and they tore their robes and sprinkled dust on their heads. Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights. No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was.
Katie, Brad, Mike, Raquel, Alissa, Rob, … my heart and prayers are with you and your families everyday. May God grant you more Peace on Earth and healing to your hearts.
