When death comes knocking it always makes us answer. We think that we should learn from death, but it was pointed out to me today that we really must learn from life.
I have been fortunate to have to face very few deaths in my life.
Distinct memories of my Dad’s tears at his father’s graveside when I was very young. The first funeral I’d ever been to. I am still touched by my Dad’s sorrow.
I felt extreme loss and pain at my grandmother’s death followed only a few weeks later by her husband. Watching my mom loose both of her parents so quickly was tragic. I remember thinking how much they loved each other and were so interdependent. Nana and Grandad were foundational in our family. I still feel emptiness in their absence.
Today was the memorial service for a friend. A peer. Janet was only 35 years old. She was a wife. A mother of three. Just like me…
Her battle with cancer was long. I have prayed to God countless times that she would be healed as have many others. Prayer for her and her family has been a regular announcement at church for a very long time. It has felt very hard to understand why God would take such a vibrant, happy, fun, and faithful lady. We cannot understand. We can try to learn from her example.
So many scriptures were shared today that not only exemplified Janet, but that are a reminder of how to live a faith-filled life. I am inspired by her. I Am encouraged by her even in her death. I know that she would want that.
I will quote here a poem that her oldest son, a 7th grader, read today.
I’m Free
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free
I’m following the path God has chosen for me.
I took His hand when I heard Him call;
I tuned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work, or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way;
I’ve now found peace at the end of day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joys.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Oh yes, these things, I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow
Look for the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full, I savored much;
Good friends, good time, a loved ones touch.
Perhaps my time seems all too brief;
Don’t lengthen your pain with undue grief.
Life up your heart and peace to thee,
God wanted me now, He set me free.
–Shannon Lee Moseley
I am grateful to have been one of the many who was touched by Janet’s love and life. She will be carried with me always.