It’s been a year now since we lost Irene, our friend, mother, mother-in-law and Grandma. I haven’t thought about it too much, but on Friday, the anniversary of her passing, I had the opportunity to go to her grave site, clean it off and place some flowers thereon.

My mind is somewhat at ease because I know she is free from any pains she might have had while in her last days. And I know that she is with the love of her life, the man she missed for nearly 15 years until the day she died, my Grandpa.

Death is a silly thing sometimes, it evokes emotions in us, often sadness and confusion, regret and a reminiscing of times past. But what is death, really? It’s simply a passing from this life to the next. The more I learn about life, its divine purpose and the life and opportunities that await us after we pass on cause me to wonder why we react so.

Truth is, I understand it. I have said good-bye many times in my life, as the son of an Air Force officer, my family moved around quite a bit and I can remember lying in bed at night crying because I knew there was a good chance I’d never again see my friends. So the idea of a long good-bye is nothing new, but death just has this thing about it, I think the scriptures put it aptly when they refer to the “sting” of death. Whether that was intended for the deceased or those still alive, I think it applies.

I am happy for Grandma, no longer does she have to deal with doctor visits, lonliness and the hot Las Vegas weather ;o) She is now with her family and friends that passed on before and ultimately with her Maker.

In the end, death should be a happy time. A time to remember days gone by and look forward to a time when there will be a wonderful reunion with all those we’ve known. As a person who believes in a loving God with purpose, I think all things have their purpose — even death.

So here’s to Grandma, thanks for the PB&J sandwiches, and when you told me to “hold my horses” when I grew impatient. Thanks to letting me stay with you for that week in Utah, and for driving me down to Provo for EFY and then to pick me and my friend up so we could go home again. Thanks for keeping me on my toes and reminding me when I was “sassing” you and that if I didn’t stop I was gonna get hit. Thanks for reminding me that you have the uncanny ability to start a conversation on Monday and then finish it on Thursday! In short, thanks for all the memories, thanks for being you and putting up with me being me. I love you, and miss you and hope you and Grandpa are happy and I’ll see you in a while.

Your loving grandson,

Kris

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