One Year Later

Next week it will be one year since the abrupt passing of our son Michael. As I look back one year later these thoughts come to mind:

One year later it still hurts

One year later I still cry

One year later I still wonder why

One year later I still feel empty

One year later I still wonder what could have been

One year later life is very different

One year later I still wait for him to come down the stairs

One year later our family is still missing a piece

One year later I still remember everything about that awful day

But also,

One year later I still have hope

One year later I still can laugh

One year later I still can enjoy life and family

One year later I am more sensitive

One year later I am more compassionate

One year later I am still thankful

One year later I still have faith

One year later I still love God

No one should ever have to bury their child but sometimes this happens and it happened to us. Our lives will never be the same. There will forever be a hole in our hearts. That will never change. Yet one year later in spite of the loss and pain I see God holding us up and preparing us to one day soon do the same for someone else who may also unfortunately share this tragic nightmare.

Friends, there is an expression, "Life is too short", and it is true. In a moment it could be all over. So live life to the fullest. Have no regrets. Love your family and tell them so. Apologize when you need to. You never know when you may never again get the chance.

Until next time,

Pastor Paul