In this blog, we recently noticed John 11:35-36 (NKJV) = 35 Jesus wept.
36 Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!”
When my wife died in 2006, I did not share many tears on the outside, but I did shed a lot of tears by myself. Every situation is different. I was on enough calming medication so that publicly it appeared that I was doing better than I was actually doing. Be slow to judge another.
We have a wonderful tradition in the south that when we meet a funeral procession, we pull over to the shoulder of the road and wait until all the cars go by. It is a sign of respect upon the passing of someone we probably really did not even know.
When a loved one dies, we wonder why the whole world does not pull over and stop. Our world certainly has come to a stop! We cry out for acknowledgment of our loss. Love has been devalued.
Valentine’s DAY is just 24 hours long and a few more days of retail reminders to buy that card or gift for someone you love. Then, if you and I are not careful, our “I Love You” expressions get lost for the rest of the year.
James 3:10 (KJV)
My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
Invest emotionally in those around you!
Verbalize to those you love the words “I Love You!” Buy that card, but write in it what you feel and know about the love that you share. Daily actions speak louder than words, so show your love of others by the deeds that you do, no strings attached.
Visit the cemetery and pause at the grave of someone you loved. Take your kids/grandkids with you and show respect. Leave some flowers. A cemetery is one place where people will leave you to your memories of your departed one.
A FB friend reminded me of some of the words to “Oh Danny Boy,” an Irish traditional hymn:
But when ye come, and all the flowers are dying,
If I am dead, as dead I well may be,
You’ll come and find the place where I am lying,
And kneel and say an Ave there for me.
And I shall hear, though soft you tread above me,
And all my grave will warmer, sweeter be,
For you will bend and tell me that you love me,
And I shall sleep in peace until you come to me!
The word “Ah-vay (Ave)” is from the Latin, meaning “words of farewell.” Mr. Webster says the “Ave” is: an expression of … leave-taking: FAREWELL. Synonyms are: adieu, au revoir, bon voyage, Godspeed, or good-bye.
The value of love is incalculable. Babies and children thrive on it and we never outgrow the Value of Love. Living or departed; don’t stop loving!
Doug Greenway
These blog articles are written by the retired minister and former educator and counselor, Doug Greenway. He'd love to hear from you with your comments, questions, or suggestions for future topics. You may reach Doug at doug_greenway@yahoo.com.
Thank you this was so good.
Doug. This certainly gives us a great comfort knowing we have loved ones who be there for us. I hope this reminds me to express my love to my family and friends often. Thank you and Vicki for the Christian Love you show us !!?