A temporary good-bye
The business portion of my brother's funeral is over. At the graveside, we sang the refrain "And He will raise you up on eagle's wings, Bear you on the breath of dawn, Make you to shine like the sun, And hold you in the palm of His Hand. ... I know that John sleeps in paradise tonight and someday I will see him again. I'm hanging on to that knowledge to help me get through the days ahead. John came to visit me the night before he died. As he was walking down my driveway, I called to him, "I love you, Johnny." He waved back and said " Love you too sister." It's such a comfort to know the last words we said to each other were expressions of love.
His 7 year old son is such a blessing in my life. As my own son prepares to leave the nest, spread his wings and fly, another child enters my life that needs me. Thankfully, I adore my sister-in-law and we can raise my nephew together. I know that's what John would want. When I told him good-bye today, I promised him that I would stay the course. To surrender to despair and grief would be to dishonor his life and my memories of him. Please hang with me as I enter this new chapter of my live.
Other good news, my oldest nephew and his wife are adopting a baby from Ethiopia. They are both finishing their Masters in Divinity this spring. During the time they were missionaries, they served in Ethiopia. Since they are so familiar with the culture, I think they will be exceptional parents. I'm thrilled to have a new baby joining our family. Although my heart is heavy, it has lots of room to love a new life.
The generosity and goodness of my friends has been amazing. So many of my LJ and real life friends have extended their love and concern to me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It's meant so much to me.