Life's Essence

Something happened this week that caused me to hit the pause button for a moment.

In what seems like a lifetime ago through one lens and a minute ago through another, upon receiving word of a good friend passing away, my heart has been transported back to a time and place where I haven’t physically resided for many years.

The memories created between our two families came flooding back to my mind; fond memories of true friendship and now great grief at the loss of a man we called friend.  

The present demands of current circumstances often cause memories to fade as we attempt to establish new friendships in new environments.

Time continues to propel us forward, but the amazing human heart never forgets.

Though times change and people change, a person's essence does not change in the memories of those who have crossed paths with them at different junctures in their journeys.

Essence is defined as “the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character.”

It is the essence of this man and his incredible wife that I have been pondering all week.  I remember the way she stared into his eyes like a star-struck school girl whenever her husband spoke.  And the way she laughed at his jokes giving him her full attention.  I remember his wit, his humor, his sarcasm, and his tough exterior that was nothing at all like the warm teddy bear he was once you got to know him. I remember his tenacious spirit and his deep love for his children and wife.  I remember two incredible people who somehow together embodied a beautiful picture of what marriage could and should look like—even in a broken and messy world.  

The amazing human heart fights hard to help us remember what truly matters: people.  Whether we know a person for a minute or for a lifetime, the impact they leave in their absence—their essence— can be unforgettable. 

Each new day provides us with ample opportunity to recognize those whom we value and treasure.  Opportunities that may not present themselves twice must be grabbed tightly with both hands because, as we all know, life is fragile, short and unpredictable.

May those whom we encounter in what may appear to be insignificant moments in our lives be blessed by the gift of the essence of life flowing through us as we keep our eyes fixed on the Giver of Life.

My heart grieves the loss of one who followed hard after the heart of Jesus. Though his wife, children, family and friends mourn the loss of his physical presence here on earth; the true essence of the man will be forever carried in each one of our hearts, never to be forgotten. 

Stay the Course…

Sheila