Memories of a Friend

Cindy,
I have been thinking of you ever since you called earlier this evening. I wish I could have been there with you tonight. I remember how I felt some 34 years ago when my "pop" passed away.

It is a very strange feeling of relief and grief. It is hard to understand unless you have been there. My mind was flooded with memories of days gone by and so many good times.

When you called me Thursday night I was with my son at the Colts football game. As we walked from the game to the parking garage we talked about him and his little buddy (Kai). I told him that someday, he would be walking down that very street telling Kai about the football games that he and I attended. Just like I have told him stories about my dad. One day, all that he would have of me is memories, and maybe a ring that I wore.

I remember as a young teenager coming over to your house. Your dad always made me feel welcomed, although even then he was a man of few words. I have truly enjoyed your fathers friendship over the past several years as I would stop by to see him, have a word of prayer with him and tell him what a remarkable man he was.

I just wanted to tell you that I loved your daddy and always had a good time with him. I respected him as a man that "took care of business." Well, as much as your mother would allow!

I also wanted to tell you what a wonderful mother, daughter and wife you are. You have extended yourself, without complaint or regret as you have raised your granddaughter, stood by your sons through all the physical and emotional times, be a mentor to your "daughter in law" and a stronger supporter of your husband. Thank you for being my prayer partner and allowing me to have a part of your life, trials and blessings alike. I am privileged to be your surrogate pastor.

Well, thank God for his grace and mercy. I wonder if your pop and my pop are talking about when I was a teen. Maybe your pop is telling my pop about how God answered his prayer, when you dumped me. My mother is probably telling your daddy how she had warned Sharon about me, but Sharon did not listen! I am sure that the sadness in your daddy's eyes are gone, when he saw Jody.

Sorry I was not with you at the end. I was hoping I had one more day. If you need me, I am here for you. We will pray that there will be some that will be saved because of the home going of your daddy. God bless you my sister, and may God comfort and bless you as only he can.

Because He Lives,
Dr. Steve Goens