It's strange how death can be the reason to motivate one. You live your day as usual and stick to your set schedule. You come and go without question until suddenly, your world turns upside down. You are left without a schedule or the knowledge of what to do next. You are simply just there. Life is beautiful and short. We take advantage for what's in and around our lives. We lose interest for the little things, and lose sight of how fragile life can be. As I reflect on the daily interactions with the loved ones in my life, there's a lot of minute things that could have been left unsaid. Instances where things could have been approached differently. All avoidable but due to complacency and that "busy" schedule, I forget to value what I have and see daily.
When losing a loved one whomever it may be, you are filled with every emotion. At times you experience them all at once and other times you are left only in awe. Religion teaches us a little something about time. That there is a season for everything and a time to every purpose under Heaven. A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance. I have to believe that God has his reasonings unbeknownst to us. That everything in which is done, is just apart of something bigger. That not all of his doings are meant for our timing nor our understanding. That we lean on him when we can no longer stand for ourselves.
My dear sweet Emily and precious baby Ruth,
Know that Nick was truly loved. That he made many laugh and will continue to do so as we reflect on the wonderful memories made with him. Know that he has touched many and took a piece of us when he left. Know that just because he is not physically here, he will always be with you. Know that he loved you. Take your time to mourn but be strong and courageous. Know that you are not alone and you have family all over to lean on. Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and know that he compensates the faithful for every loss.
Much love from Texas,
The Vande Sandes.
Nick- Thanks for being the big brother to me. I will miss you greatly and will laugh at our memories often. Stay out of trouble up there.
In the end these things matter most:
How well did you love? How fully did you live? How deeply did you let go?