Thursday, February 24, 2011

The Year of Good-byes

Why do I think that each time will be easier?  I guess it is because the sad feelings usually don't hit me until the moment arrives and the final hugs are given.  Last month, we had to say good-bye to my brother and his family as they went back home (many, many miles away) after a week-long visit.  We talked and ate and laughed for six days and I tricked myself into thinking the good-byes would be easier this time and yet, when we put on coats and turned to say those final words, tears clogged my eyes and my throat in a unexpected instant.

Today we had to say good-bye to some of our very best friends.


 They leave this weekend for a journey across the country, going and living where God is calling them to go.  Their son and my Gavin have known each other since they were only months old.  Their littlest and my Benjamin were born weeks apart.  We play together, we laugh together, we have fun together and yet, I didn't expect to be so affected by the parting.  

 









Today we spent the day with them, helping to load their moving truck.  




We shared a last meal.



Then we put on coats and turned to say those final words, and again the tears came.  


 Even tonight, I feel the tug of sadness, wishing things could stay as we know them, in our comfortable groove. 

And just like in so many things, God draws me to Him.  He reminds me that one day, "He will wipe every tear from their eyes.  There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."  (Revelation 21:4)


2 comments:

  1. Oh...this is making me cry ,it hits me at the last minute too (driving away usually) But oh how we will miss you all .
    My love to you my dear friend ♥♥♥

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  2. Sorry you are missing your friends! I react that way sometimes too... more often than not though, I get all wrapped up in the actions of saying good-bye (say to our best friends when they left for Africa this past year) and then miss them SO much after they are gone!

    I pray the Lord's comfort for you!

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