by: Jackie Brindle
in loving memory of Larry E. Brindle
Take a deep breath in... and let it out.
That’s what I’m doing, as I’m writing this. Reflecting on this past year, there were waves of emotions.
But nothing could have prepared our family for the tsunami that came on Christmas Day.
We lost the patriarch to our family. The tsunami came out of no where, crushed, and shattered our hearts more than we could bare it.
This past week, we had to find our way through the wreckage, pick up the pieces, and often questioned, “why?”
As the water receded, wounds still open—- I saw the sun STILL set and the sun STILL rise, in the morning. The fresh breeze of the day STILL softly brushed on my cheeks, just like a new day says hello.
Nothing can change the past. But my hope is in God, who is STILL the same loving God as He was yesterday, today, and will be tomorrow.
This past week, I haven’t had many encouraging words to say.
In fact…. it’s been other people being the encouragement in the day that has been a source of light in our darkest moments.
I cannot even express how amazed, thankful, and humbled I am, by the outpouring of love from family and friends.
If there’s anything I’ve taken away from this weary, complicated, joyful, and exhausting year —-it is to never take this life for granted.
I pray that the sting from 2020 is like a battle scar. When I look back on this year, I won’t see just the trials but also see God’s mighty hand on our lives.
Even, if I can’t see it now. I pray that it would remind me of what is MOST valuable in life.
Faith, Family, and Friends. Those are the riches of the world.
Thomas Rhett said in his country song (Be a Light),
…. “we only get one go around.”
I pray I — we — remember to count our blessings, serve others, put God first, and fearlessly live life —- holding nothing back!
Fearlessly hope
Fearlessly love
Fearlessly give
Fearlessly live life
in 2021 and
forever
more.
By: Jackie Brindle
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