Heavy Hearts

It was yesterday that we attended the funeral of our dear friend, Robert Morrell.  His passing was filled with ambivilent feelings for Lee and me.  We were saddened to lose him, but relieved, that he is finally freed from the very sick body that had become his prison since last Spring.  The celebration of his life, in his church that he loved, was filled to capacity with the multitude of friends who loved him.  Even though he had written a request for a simple ceremony, it was a grand tribute to our friend.  He had asked for a choir, and said he would understand if they could not get enough on a week-day because of working responsibilities.  Therefore, he said, let the congregation sing one song.....his favorite...."It is well with my soul."  Not to be.....the choir was filled...no empty seats there!  And did they sing!.......It was the most beautiful rendition of his song ever to be sung in that church!  A choir of angels sang yesterday for Robert.  Grandaughter, Sarah Ann, sang for her grandfather, and her brother, Chris, read "taps".  Emotionally, it was a challenge, but these two brave children wanted to give this last gift to their grandfather whom they loved so much.

Robert had made his final wishes known in regards to funeral, etc. and he had listed the names of pallbearers.  Lee was humbled to be one of those honored.

Yes, Robert is no longer with us, but as we were reminded yesterday, in the sharing of many memorable stories during our time with him, his legacy will not be forgotten. His quiet spirit with strong determination for giving his very best in everything he did, will remain a shining example for all who knew him.  He and his wife, Carole, will always be our dear friends, and we will never forget those wonderful Sundays with our "Sunday Lunch Buddies."

As we go about our busy days in preparation for the holidays, we will remember the Morrell family and their first Christmas without their beloved Robert.  We will cherish the time we have with each other and try very hard to forget the fatigue that comes with all the activity that somehow manages to alter the true meaning of this time of the year.  We will see each event as an opportunity to share a little time with those we love, and will be reminded that we only hold that time for a moment.

More Later...............................Brenda