A work in progress

I probably shouldn’t write. That “Do as I say, not as I do” quote could easily be applied to my written musings. God, in His infinite wisdom, made me a math teacher, so my writing skills are rarely called into question. So why do I keep coming back to this? Because it brings some order to my random catalog of a brain. It may not make any sense to anyone else, but it tends to bring some sanity to the insanity of my emotions and mind. Currently, the play-by-play in my head centers on grief. Last May, an aunt passed away; last September, my Grandma Merrell passed away; last Saturday night, an uncle passed away. There is great hope and even joy in each case, since they are now with the Lord. Yet, my mind is full of uncertainty, conflicting emotions, and many questions: What should grief look like? How do I grieve well?    How do I honor the life of my loved one?    How can it be that, for a brief moment, my world stands still, while   everyone e...

It's Tuesday night, 10:30 pm. I'm supposed to be packing for our school's high school retreat, grading quizzes, and going to bed. But I know that the absolute best thing to do right now is to pause in this moment and praise the Lord for my grandmother. I received word this evening that she doesn't have much time on earth left. I'm eternally grateful that her life has been full - full of love, full of hope, full of laughter, full of service, full of the Lord. Soon, she will be free from pain, free from a clouded mind, and free to worship her Savior forever. Thank you, Lord, for allowing me to be a part of Grandma's family. Thank you for her sweet spirit. Thank you for her servant's heart, particularly in caring for children. Thank you that she cheerfully helped me memorize verses for Awana, gently encouraged me to practice my trumpet, and wisely guided me to be a better oldest sister during the years she lived with my family. Thank you th...