June 22, 2026 – Monday

Dear T.C.

Today, we came by ones and twos to pay our respects.  There were hugs and tears and more laughter than I would have thought possible.  Friends and family came and shared a hug and a smile and an  encouraging word.  I don’t think you realized how many lives you touched.

I promise you one thing, this journey will be used to encourage others.  As long as I have breath in my lungs, your courage and determination will be shared and JESUS will be glorified!

Do you remember that shadow of grief I talked about?  Tonight, I wore it as a badge of honor!  I have been blessed to call you my son and proud of the man you became.

The guys came while we were at the church and prepared a final resting place for you.  I’ll be so glad to get you home.  It’s almost time for me to find my new normal.

The folks at Heritage Baptist Church have gone above and beyond.  They scrubbed the new floors in the basement and hung shower curtains on the bathrooms that are ready to be used.  (The doors have yet to arrive.)  They have been a shining example of who Jesus is in this world.  I can’t say enough about them.  Every time I needed a hug or a shoulder, they have been there.

When I first attended this church, it was my plan to get plugged in and get busy.  It was my plan to make a difference and find a place to put my gifts to good use.  I never dreamed it would be my turn.  My turn to be on the receiving end.  It felt too soon, but, Father always has a plan.  So, when I needed a blessing, the folks at Heritage Baptist Church stepped up and made it happen.

June 23, 2026 – Tuesday

It’s been one week since we said goodbye.  That badge of honor from yesterday feels like a wet blanket today.

I Thessalonians 4:13 says, in essence, we do not grieve the same way people grieve who have no hope.  And yet; we grieve.

Your marker arrived today at the exact same time the guys were here preparing your final resting place.  I just can’t bring myself to use the “g” word.  It’s too depressing.  I know where you are, but this empty shell will soon be lowered into the ground.

We do NOT grieve like most people because we DO have hope in Christ.  We know we will see you again; and yet; we grieve.

We will gather at the house of the Lord and we will rejoice at your freedom.  Freedom from pain.  Freedom from sickness.  Freedom to live eternally in HIS presence.  And yet; we grieve.

You lived a life of generosity and laughter.  Everyone who knew you was blessed to have had you  in their life, if only for a season.  Every person comes into our lives for a season or a reason. THIS woman is blessed to call you my son.  And yet; I grieve.

Until I see you again,

Keep walking with Jesus!

→  I love you!     MOM