I noticed several of you went to my site last Monday for a new blog and were probably surprised to find nothing new there.  I apologize for not writing last week.  However, I got a call Saturday night that my brother, Mike, was dying.  My sister and I hopped on the first plane out the next morning to San Diego.  We were able to get there in time that he was at least able to flutter an eyelid and moan enough to let us know he knew we were there.  For that I am grateful.  He died peacefully in his sleep Monday morning.

As much as I wanted to get online and tell you all what was happening, I simply had no words.  Mike and I were very close and his leaving this earth brings a huge void in my heart.   I am assured that he is in heaven with Jesus now though and I know that peace of knowing will comfort me like nothing else can.  I appreciate the online well wishes, cards, emails and phone calls from many of my friends.

I know I’ve written about this before but here I go again.  During the past week, I was reminded once again of how important it is for others to reach out when someone experiences a loss or has an illness.  The simple acts of picking up the phone or sending a card speak volumes to those in pain.  There were special friends who just came and sat with us.  They didn’t need to have words of wisdom.  They simply sat in the living room offering a hug here and there when needed.  Others brought in meals…comfort food one might say.  There were of course condolences shared on Facebook  that were simply overwhelming with the outpouring of love shared in volumes.  We all felt loved by the actions of others throughout the week.

There is a not so pretty side to all of this as well.  It’s painful when you know someone close knows about the death and doesn’t call—maybe because they simply don’t know what to say.  There are others who loved my brother but are now wracked with guilt for not keeping in touch prior to his death.  I heard many say, “I had meant to call or stop by, but I just got too busy.”  Now they will live never having the opportunity of saying their goodbyes.

I am just as guilty as everyone else.  I know there are people I should’ve reached out to by now and haven’t.  This was a rude awakening to once again listen to that still small voice that tells you to go do something.  You don’t need to know what to say.  It may even feel awkward.  It’s OK.  Those on the receiving end will help you.  Life is too short.  Don’t miss the opportunities to be a blessing to others.  For when you are a blessing to others, you are blessed in return!

Thanks for hanging in there with me!  I will try to be more upbeat next week in my writings.  But just in my usual style…what you see is what you get.   These are the things on my mind this week.  Have a blessed week and go be a blessing!

Matthew 5:4 (NKJV)  Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted.

John 13:34-35 (NIV)  “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”