The circle of life...

Ahhh...the circle of life. It truly is bitter sweet. A new life brings on hope and joy. The end of a life brings on grief and loss. Although many of my friends are expecting new bundles of joy soon, our family, unfortunately, has endured more end of life moments within the past year.

Beginning early 2008, we lost Richard's Uncle "Brother" George, on his father's side and then his Uncle Jimmy, his mother's brother. Shortly thereafter, we lost my Uncle Phil in June. This was my mother's older, but youngest brother, and his loss is still very much felt within our family. We miss you much Uncle Phil!

As we were still reeling from these devastating losses, we learned that Richard's Aunt Doretha was ill, and she soon passed on as well.

Psalm 91:1-2 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."

We could never have imagined the loss that was upon us.

On December 4, 2008, Richard, myself and Layla took a Continental flight to Oklahoma City to visit his mother, sister and brother, with their families in Lawton and Mangum, Oklahoma. What a wonderful trip this was!!! We had a beautiful dinner with Richard's mom, Medina, and the rest of the family. We had no idea that this would be the last time we would get to hug Medina in person...

On New Years Day 2009 we received the unbelievable news that Medina passed away. This news rocked us to the core, and her loss is completely immeasurable. We miss you tremendously, 'Dina! May you rest in peace. We love you.

Psalm 23:1-6 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

The most recent family loss occurred on February 17, 2009. My first cousin, Jason went to be with the Lord at the young age of 44. Jason, I pray that you finally found your peace.

Timothy 4:7-8 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.