Precious Memories

18 years ago on June 17, 1998, at 11:15 in the morning, God called my precious Larry home and today precious memories continue to warm my heart. As I see his charming personality and quirky humor in my family, I feel blessed to know that even now his legacy lives on in our daughters, our grandsons and granddaughter, our extended families, and all those who knew and loved him so dearly. It's not about the wealth we obtain while we are on this earth that people remember; but the way we treated them and made them feel that leaves a lasting impression long after we are gone. 

Larry was born to be an over achiever in most anything he set his mind to. He was awesome in sports and loved to play football, baseball and basketball and excelled in them all. As he grew older, he loved to coach sports, and even umpire the games. He loved hunting but he absolutely loved fishing.He loved life and loved people. He had this quirky jovial personality that made him determined to win people's friendship, no matter what. One of his favorites goals in life was when he would meet someone who seemed to be backward or timid and for whatever reason were not joining in the fun, so he'd begin to aggravate them in such a way that finally, he would break through their tough exterior and there would be a smile- and then a laugh-and even a chuckle or two; and then he would relax knowing his mission was accomplished; they were friends for life! 

Everyone that knew Larry learned to love this unique man who charmed the hearts of all who knew him; and even today, people still remember his jokes and his fun-loving charming personality.  Although he's gone from sight, he still remains alive and dearly loved in the hearts of all his family and It warms my heart to see him in our daughters and grandchildren as well. Larry was my childhood sweetheart which made it really bittersweet to continue living once he was gone. I had my girls and their families, but I was alone, but being witness to the events preceding his departure brought a peace like none other; as his family and the hospice staff witnessed visitations with angels who came to stay at his bedside weeks before they finally took him home. Larry didn't understand why we couldn't see them as he would show us where they were; nodding in their direction; not realizing that their visit and this spiritual realm was for his eyes only and not something we could see; but it was good to know they brought him peace during his final days before they escorted him to his heavenly home. 

Even tho I was a Christian and wore a smile on my face for many years afterward, I was totally heartbroken and miserable inside and Only God knew how devastated I was. I am so thankful for His comfort and peace as I attempted to walk through life without Larry by my side. Many are the years He had to carry me, and never once did He make me feel guilty for calling upon Him for strength to continue this life; because many times I just wanted to close my eyes in sleep and never wake up on earth again; but God had a different plan for my life.  Today I still miss Larry dearly but after much needed healing, I am finally ready to move forward in the life God has predestined for me to walk without Larry by my side. In the past couple years, I have come to develop a very dear and personal relationship with the Lord and the more I sought Him, the more real He became. Holy Spirit is the dearest companion anyone could ever have and He has filled the void and loneliness within my life. Now I know that no matter what comes my way, God has me covered in the palm of His hands and He will never leave me and forever and always, I am His and He is mine throughout all eternity!

So, today I walk hand in hand with Him every step of the way, through every moment of every day, and seek to fulfill the calling God has placed within my heart. He is the very air I breathe, the wind beneath my wings, the song that I sing, and the love of my life. And with Him leading the way and providing all I need to accomplish the tasks before me; I know that I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me and I am so excited to see the plans unfolding that He has for me and me alone!

I pray that each of you will make time to enjoy and acknowledge your loved one today, while they are still walking alongside you. Life is filled with uncertainties and there is not one second promised to any of us; so let's enjoy Life to the fullest: Live well, Laugh often, and Love much!  Let's be all we can for His glory sake and Be blessed, dear friend. God loves you and so do I~