Monday, January 19, 2015
It's times like this that prompt many of us to slow down and reflect. For me, the past few days I've spent time reflecting on specific childhood memories and on a life of man that clearly was influential. Uncle Merle wasn't always a man of many words, but his actions and how he lived his daily life spoke volumes. He was a godly man, always positive, always on the move. His can do attitude was contagious. His love and encouragement to others was evident. It's hard to fathom that a single person could touch so many in a positive light. Uncle Merle lived a simple life- a life of farming and love for God. At a young age, I had no idea that time spent in tobacco fields would have a lasting impact on the person I am today. Those long days sitting tobacco, then hot summer days with my family cutting the tobacco, getting scorched by the sun, that my face thanks me for today, since of course we didn't use sunblock back then (too many sunspots to mention). Transitioning to the cold days that would follow spent in the stripping room. I remember riding with him in his cabbed tractor out in the fields, and how cool I thought I was riding in tractor that had air condition and music. Thinking one day I would own one myself. Such fond memories. Not to be forgot, feeding and checking on the cows or keeping up the enormous garden him and Dianne would plant. Me, trying to make a few extra dollars in the summer, would call my mom from the barn, and say there is no way I can make a dent in keeping this garden free of weeds. From countless swimming adventures w/my sisters in their in-ground pool, mud fights out in the fields, to breakfast in the mornings, to cherry cordial ice cream, to many a step he would take on the dance floor, to church on sunday w/uncle Merle. Dianne and Merle always made their home warm, friendly and inviting. It wasn't until recently did I realize how influential my uncle was not only to me, but so many others. His actions and his life in general were pleasing to God. His love, encouragement and positive attitude was contagious. Growing-up, the things I witnessed and learned from the adults in my life weren't taught in school, and clearly not in today's classroom either. Reflecting back now, I realize uncle Merle was defiantly one of my most influential teachers. Tomorrow and Wednesday, we gather to celebrate the life of Merle, who's life was pleasing to God. I ask you, and myself included, do you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ? Are you living a life pleasing to God? Are you aware of your actions, the words you speak and how you live your daily life is indeed influencing so many people around you? Your children, your grandchildren, your friends, co-workers and so many others. When God calls you home, as he did this past Saturday morning w/Uncle Merle- will God say to you, as he said to Merle; "Well done good and faithful servant, well done." For those of us morning the lost of our loved one- may you find strength and comfort in our Lord Jesus Christ. May you go to him in time of prayer during your periods of sadness, sorrow, and loneliness. For Uncle Merle is in a place that knows of no pain. His life was a blessing to so many. That for those of us who believe, may we find comfort and a sense of peace knowing we will see him again one day. RIP Merle-- it's not goodbye, but I will see you again.
