What a Week

So I turned 32 on Monday and totaled my van on Tuesday. Luckily, the people in the other vehicle were not hurt and neither was I. Just a little sore. The van is just material, I am thankful that the accident was not worse.

But what a reminder of the need to be thankful for every day. I am thankful for my church family who has lended prayers and support. Also, I was watching the nursery age kids at our church's VBS, and others stepped up to replace me to allow me to go home and get some more sleep before going to work. I am trying to get more rest, more sleep. I guess I really am pushing myself a little too hard.

Well, I have been back to work; tonight will be the third night. I'm feeling better each day. I guess some life changes are in store. Stay tuned.

Hope in Death

I attended a funeral today for a man I never met. One of his sons attends church where I go, so I went to express my sympathy and offer prayer for my friend and his family. While there, I realized that I am just continually amazed at how much hope there is in the grief expressed by Christian families enduring death. This man had five children--four boys and one girl--and all of them spoke today. They were all sad. They all shed tears. The grandchildren and great-grandchildren all spent some time crying, as well.

But there was also some laughter. There was a measure of relief. This man was nearly 80 years old, and seven months ago he fell and had been paralyzed ever since. He was in pain and agony and he was unable to do anything. So those who loved him were glad to see him relieved of his pain. And more than that, in addition to the relief was the hope that he is somewhere different; somewhere better. The Apostle Paul wrote in I Thessalonians that we are not to grieve as those who have no hope. We have hope. We have faith in something greater than this life. When this physical body meets its end, it marks a new beginning.

This was the first time in a long time that I attended a funeral for someone with whom I had no personal contact. It was interesting to witness the family and how they interacted with one another. It was encouraging to see their love for one another and their faith in God. It was antoher reminder of why I am so thankful for the faith I have in God.

Grandparents Rule!

We just got the kids back today after they spent 10 days at my parents' house. I am glad my Mom and Dad are so willing to take all of their grandkids from time to time. It is so important for them as grandparents to have that special time with their grandkids. I cannot think of anything that would lead me to deprive them of that joy they can have in their lives.

It is also good for the kids. I am the only grandchild on my dad's side of the family to have not spent time alone with my grandparents. I got to see them a lot, but since we lived in New England and Gram and Papa lived in Texas, sending me by myself was not a very easy proposition. Shawna went about 13 years without seeing her grandmother at all. I am so thankful I was able to witness that reunion. Grandchildren need time with their grandparents. Again, I cannot think of anything that would lead me to deprive my children of time with my parents.

Then, of course, there is the time alone that Shawna and I were able to spend together. And you guessed it: we saw two movies in one night! Spiderman 3 is good, but easily the weakest of the three movies. Mr. Brooks is a movie that allows Kevin Costner to say, "See, after 20+ years, I can make a good move again!"

I love grandparents. I am in no hurry for my children to grow up, but I can already imagine the joy of being a grandfather. I am so glad I can let my children spend time alone with their grandparents. It is so important in my children's development. I encourage you, if possible, to nurture you child's relationship with their grandparents. Everyone benefits.