Love Does Even in Death

In Loving Memory of our neighbor Uncle Dennis 12/16/13

Love is a gift that we can give for free.  It can take many shapes or forms:
 a smile,
 a hug, 
a listening ear, 
a meal, 
a gesture, 
a moment, 
a word,
a sincere effort on the part of the giver.  

Love is a gift that can sometimes get lost in the hustle and bustle of our busy lives.  We put off the call, the text, the visit. . .and with no warning at all, someone we love is just gone. The thoughts that fill our minds aren't just the good ones: the 4th of July parade, waiting for Santa and the fire department Christmas morning, sitting on his porch watching my kids as they rode by on scooters, someone who griped about the school parking more than I did, that windmill, those campfires, the cacti, our last birthday celebration and how it was together. . .there's this sense of longing for the time back to do better, to be better, to be His hands and feet more thoughtfully and generously.

But there's not a do over.  And even though I know he knew we cared for him. . .and we stopped what we were doing to talk when he came by, I feel like I could have done more.  Been more present.  Taken more initiative to include.  To know him was to love him. . .in all his gruffness.   And so it goes on.  Life.

Death is just one part of the journey.  And every person who passes teaches us something about ourselves and leaves an indelible mark on our hearts. Don't squander the gift death gives.  Hang on to it tight with both hands and forge ahead empowered by the imprint this loved one has left on you.  Continue the legacy of our loved ones who sit at the throne of God by offering LOVE through:
 a smile,
 a hug, 
a listening ear, 
a meal, 
a gesture, 
a moment, 
a word,
a sincere effort on the part of the giver. 

Love does.
Do you?