Hug your Loved Ones A Little Tighter, Longer, More Often

With the recent passing of a dear teacher, cancer survivor, mother, wife, sister, friend, role model and in general a humble and marvelous woman, I find myself mourning.  I selfishly mourn for my loss.  For the losses of us still left here on Earth without here.  I know she is due for the Kingdom and all it's glories and painless, joyful, perfect eternity of everlasting love. 

I watched in awe as her grace, strength and faith grew until her last sigh.  She is much missed, and I am struggling to celebrate her accomplished life.  I am sure today many will wear a smile with rolling tears, and holding tightly the hands of those I still share this time with.  Part of the purpose of death for us spectators is to remember what our time here is actually about.  

So, I vow to kiss my parents every time I see them.  To tell me husband and other loved ones "I love you" at the end of our conversations.  To kiss and squeeze my baby boy a little tighter each blessed time he is in my arms.  To look up to my wondrous God and give him my thanks and will not just before bed.