One year...12 months...52 weeks...365 days. It boggles the mind that Matt has been gone from this Earth for a whole year already.
Since that awful day last year, lots of things have happened in all our lives: marriages, births, loves found, loves lost, and yes...we've lost other loved ones and friends in death. Still, nothing changes the reality of the hole Matt left in the lives of his parents, his sisters, his family, and all who love him. Life does go on, but our paths will forever be stained by November 20, 2009.
Take some time today to remember Matt. Remember the man he was, his easy smile, and his quick, dry sense of humor. But more than anything, remember that he loved you! I can't help but think Matt would be at a loss that so many still miss him so fiercely. In his humble, gentle way, he quietly moved through life doing what he could to help others, passing on kindness to friends and strangers, alike, and loving his God with all of his heart. Pray for his family as they feel his absence acutely today and during the coming holiday season.
To Mark, Nancy, Nikki and Missy -- know that you are loved beyond measure, prayed for often, and some of the best and favorite people many of us have ever -- and will ever -- know. Your strength and certain faith are amazing, but we know you must struggle often with grief and anger over the loss of your precious Matt. We will stand in the gap when you are weak, and help you stand when you no longer have the strength. We have not forgotten you. We will never forget Matt.
I, for one, intend to find some way today to make another's life a little brighter. I'm not sure how, but when I do I'll post it back here for all to share. How 'bout you? Wanna join me in celebrating Matt today through random acts of kindness? If you take up the challenge, post your results back here so we can all share and applaud each other for honoring Matt in this fun way!
Hug your loved ones today. Kiss your parents, snuggle your kids, and live the day intentionally with the same enthusiasm that Matt brought to every one of his days.
We miss you Matt, and we look forward to the day we can see you again.
~r
Since that awful day last year, lots of things have happened in all our lives: marriages, births, loves found, loves lost, and yes...we've lost other loved ones and friends in death. Still, nothing changes the reality of the hole Matt left in the lives of his parents, his sisters, his family, and all who love him. Life does go on, but our paths will forever be stained by November 20, 2009.
Take some time today to remember Matt. Remember the man he was, his easy smile, and his quick, dry sense of humor. But more than anything, remember that he loved you! I can't help but think Matt would be at a loss that so many still miss him so fiercely. In his humble, gentle way, he quietly moved through life doing what he could to help others, passing on kindness to friends and strangers, alike, and loving his God with all of his heart. Pray for his family as they feel his absence acutely today and during the coming holiday season.
To Mark, Nancy, Nikki and Missy -- know that you are loved beyond measure, prayed for often, and some of the best and favorite people many of us have ever -- and will ever -- know. Your strength and certain faith are amazing, but we know you must struggle often with grief and anger over the loss of your precious Matt. We will stand in the gap when you are weak, and help you stand when you no longer have the strength. We have not forgotten you. We will never forget Matt.
I, for one, intend to find some way today to make another's life a little brighter. I'm not sure how, but when I do I'll post it back here for all to share. How 'bout you? Wanna join me in celebrating Matt today through random acts of kindness? If you take up the challenge, post your results back here so we can all share and applaud each other for honoring Matt in this fun way!
Hug your loved ones today. Kiss your parents, snuggle your kids, and live the day intentionally with the same enthusiasm that Matt brought to every one of his days.
We miss you Matt, and we look forward to the day we can see you again.
~r
