Laid To Rest

This Wednesday afternoon was very different for most of us. The sky was blue, hardly a cloud in the sky. The wind was chilly. The mood was mellow. At one point, I looked up at the sky and saw an airplane go by. An American Flag was flying at half staff. These were things I noticed as I attended a graveside service for friends of ours at church. A baby boy was born Sunday evening. And because the time was too early for him, he passed before he could live. I have never attended an infant service before. Let me just say that my heart was aching before I even saw the parents. I cried with them as many others did. The casket was so tiny. It's hard to say goodbye. The minister, who did the service, did it with grace, elegance, compassion and it was real. He let the family know that we were all there today loving them and supporting them. I believe they felt that and the presence of God. I don't think anyone will ever know what it's like unless you've been there. It's hard to know what to say. A simple touch, a friendly card, a phone call, an invitation can mean so much to a person grieving. Never give up on someone who's lost a child or a family member. Everyone handles death differently. I believe healing begins when you allow others to grieve with you. I love this family. They are quiet individuals, but would do anything for anyone. I encourage you to pray for those you love. Pray for those you don't know. Pray always for that is what God wants us to do.

In Memory: Austin Beeman, January 7, 2007