A friend ended her struggle with pancreatic cancer yesterday. I have to say that for some time now my prayers for her were that the end would hasten and bring her relief and peace. She’s found that now.
The following is excerpted from an email from her husband: “I ask that you take one lesson away from this. Never take time or people for granted. Always tell loved ones or people you care about exactly what they mean to you.”
So, this email isn’t meant to be a downer or elicit condolences. Laura is in a much better place and there’s no doubt about that. Instead, I challenge you right now, as you read this, pick up the phone or send an email and tell or remind someone how much they mean to you. :love2:
Aw, Jen. What a wonderful tribute to your brave friend. (And you know you’re My Person.)
Comment by Rhonda — April 9, 2007 @ 5:48 am
“All mankind is of one author and is one volume; when one man dies, one chapter is not torn out of the book, but translated into a better language; and every chapter must be so translated. God employs several translators […] but God’s hand is in every translation and his hand shall bind up all our scattered leaves again for that library where every book shall lie open to one another.” (J. Donne)
Comment by Kimberly — April 9, 2007 @ 7:36 am
What a wonderful tribute to a friend. I’m reminded of the chorus of Alabama’s song “Angels Among Us.”
Oh I believe there are angels among us.
Sent down to us from somewhere up above.
They come to you and me in our darkest hours.
To show us how to live, to teach us how to give.
To guide us with a light of love.
I’ve lost several friends to cancer in the last couple years, and one friend lost his wife and middle son two years apart. It’s all been a big lesson is just how precious friends really are.
Comment by Marilyn — April 9, 2007 @ 7:45 am
Thanks, Rhonda.
Those are both lovely, Kimberly and Marilyn.
Comment by Jennifer — April 9, 2007 @ 8:11 am
Hey, Jen,
I love ya. Sorry this has happened, though you sound as if you’re handling it.
:love2:
Anna
Comment by Anna Adams — April 9, 2007 @ 11:14 am
Anna, I know you’re well aware of how awful it can be. Sending a hug back to you.
Comment by Jennifer — April 9, 2007 @ 2:30 pm
Hey Jen - Thanks for alway being such an inspiration. I love ya and I miss you.
Comment by Ellen — April 9, 2007 @ 5:38 pm
Back at you, Ellen.
Comment by Jennifer — April 9, 2007 @ 7:23 pm
Oh, Jen. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Thank *you* for being such a great friend. :love2:
Comment by Kris Starr — April 10, 2007 @ 2:57 pm
Thanks, Kris. Laura was a truly lovely person. Hey, she was from Ottowa. And I’m coming right back atcha on the friend part.
Comment by Jennifer — April 10, 2007 @ 10:12 pm