All Heart...Still Alive

As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.
Proverbs 27:19 NIV

“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”” John 10:28-30 NIV

Driving back to Phoenix earlier than usual on Thursday I was reflecting on the life that my friend Carol Denny had lived.  I thought of all the years I had known her – nearly 30.  Remembering her undying spirit, her joyous nature.  Recalling that I had never once heard her complain in spite of the physical challenges she had faced and overcome on a daily basis her entire life.  A sobering thought as I reflected on my own life.  The embarrassment I felt since I could not say the same about myself in regards to a life free of complaint.  In spite of my life of relative ease in comparison to Carol's.

Later, sitting quietly in the service listening as her sister recounted their childhood.  Speaking of how most of those around her thought her days were numbered from birth.  A seemingly constant thought of her death being imminent.   

Her sister recalling a night when the sound of Carol’s usual loud and heavy breathing had stopped.  Alarmed.  She had rushed to her side, fearing the worst.  Only to discover it was quite the opposite.  She was alive and well.  In fact, experiencing a rare but welcome “good night”. 

I smiled as I recalled happier times with Carol.  Remembering times of hard work and hard laughter.  The two of us blessed with a similar sarcastic sense of humor.  Recalling long days of work often ending with a time to pause and reflect on the day’s accomplishments.  A time to smile and laugh.

I’ve made a career out of the foundation she poured into me earlier in my life.  I’m thankful for all she taught me.   I’m in awe of her quiet strength, her indomitable spirit.  I am inspired by her life’s example.  I’m grateful for the times we had. 

In the end, she seems to have exceeded everyone’s expectations.  Passing just a few days shy of her 72^nd birthday.  She’s now in heaven.  Healed and enjoying eternity. 

Thanks Carol.  God Speed.  You will be missed.