Laughter, Love, and Life

I tell you what! Like my brother, Steve, told his congregation recently, ‘I’m getting tired of everyone dying! So just stop it!” Of course, he was teasing, but I have to agree. This is the third family death in four months.

Our dear Aunt Loretta passed away this week. And oh my! Memories of her bring me smiles galore. Philippians 4:4 ‘Rejoice in the Lord always,’ must have been her life verse. She had a laugh that could set a whole room of people into their own peals of laughter. Her face was always in a huge grin. Of course, her boys may have other memories, but that’s mine.

I knew we were always welcome at her home. She and Uncle Wayne were extremely hospitable, and we always felt loved by them. Once while we were there, Aunt Loretta sent Uncle Wayne for a few items to add to supper. He took my girls with him to the store, came home with five grocery bags of junk food, and not one single item on her list! The ‘discussion’ that ensued was hilarious! I’m sure it was partially for our entertainment.

Aunt Loretta loved my little girls, and they loved her. When we would visit, she would drop whatever she had to do and go play with the girls. Exploring the woods and creeks on hilly, Missouri property was beyond what my ‘citified’ girls normally did, and they loved every minute!

Aunt Loretta was a strong woman. I remember as a teen watching her and Uncle Wayne deal with the cruel murder of one of their boys. How they endured without becoming bitter and vengeful is a testament to their inner, spiritual strength. Knowing she loved God and I will see her again is a good feeling. I’m just sorry we got so busy with our lives that we failed to visit through the years as we should have.

As each of the older generation passes, it makes me consider many things – two in particular – the shortness of life and the legacy we leave.

I hope I can emulate the good things I remember of those who have gone before. I’m sure Aunt Loretta was greeted with, ‘Well done, My good and faithful servant.’

May God bless the Sheek family during this time. May we all be challenged to live for God’s glory.

Blessings

Kara Beth