Saying Goodbye

Today I had a final chance to say goodbye to my friend Eric. It was difficult, yet joyous at the same time. I have long felt that those who live an exemplary life would have a party of a passing. Well, considering that Eric had cancer and died way too young (37 to be exact) it wasn't the party that I thought it would be. I cried, felt sorry for myself and his widow and children, and at times laughed and was even a bit jealous. But now it is a party. I know that I didn't always agree with Eric. Things like politics and scripture interpretation (on things that are peripheral), were often just unspoken "agree to disagree" things with us. But this I will always see eye to eye with him. God loves all of us, we need to have a relationship with Him, and Jesus wants to be a part of that relationship. So as far as Eric's memorial service goes, I think for the most part, that was made clear. We sang some songs, and it was hard for me. I remember Eric as one who loved to sing, even if it was out of tune, so that was really hard on me. I have led worship at camps and things with him, so I just saw him with us and it was painful. But then I felt as though God was telling me that for today i could sing with Eric one more time. People rememberd Eric for his love and devotion to the youth of our church and community. I share that love, but now I want to share that passion with him too. Imay not be able to be crazy or wild like E but I want to love those kids and my community like he did. Really i want that for all of us. To love those around us like God loves us. Whatever form that takes, feeding homless, volunteering at an elementary school, working with pregnant teens, visiting a convelescant home,whatever it may be. That is what we need to do.