When You Have to Say Goodbye

Some things are just sad - like gut wrenching, heart breaking sad. 

And there's no sugar coating it or making you "feel better".

And right now, you don't want to hear about how "God works all things for good" or that "He has a plan" or that she's "in a better place"..

Because you know those things, but although we don't "grieve as those who have no hope," . . . .
We do still grieve.

And it hurts.

And It isn't fair.

And sometimes that just needs to be said.

So if you're reading this and your heart hurts because you had to say "goodbye" - I'm sorry!  I'm just really, really sorry.

In memory of B.H.  A precious friend who is now in heaven.

Dearest B,
      I don't know if it works this way.  If in between your joyful dancing and humbled bowing before our King, He might whisper in your ear these words from me?  But just in case He will, I want to tell you how very special you were to me.  That even though we didn't see each other often, you always made me feel like family.  Your love for Jesus and your heart for the lost inspired & challenged me from the moment we met, eleven years ago.
      You and your hubby were Josh and I's first friends as a married couple and our first ministry partners.  Your phenomenal ability to juggle helping your husband, caring for your children, and reaching your community, all while seeming content and always loving well, was nothing short of supernatural.
       I do not understand this, because while you certainly have finished well and earned your "well done good and faithful servant" - it seems like God should have noticed how much you were still needed here.  We were not ready to say goodbye.  I know He knows what He's doing, but it surely doesn't make sense to me. You, my precious sister, were a gift to this earth.
        I am a better mother and a more confident homeschooler because of you.  Your legacy of faith and service extends beyond your family line and into mine as well.  You showed me what it looks like to be content in all circumstances and to trust God completely with your future.
        I love you my sweet friend and I promise to continue to pray faithfully for your family and to look for ways to love them.
        I will miss you.