Dear Thoene friends and family, this has been a season of saying goodbye to loved ones for so many of us. -for Brock and I too-
There are dear ones in my lifetime, who have said goodbye. I never, ever, expected they would not be a part of my ongoing daily life. I had such expectations that things would always be as they had been: easy, and mostly joy-filled.
The goodbye, whether through death or life’s circumstances, left a huge empty place in my heart. Heartbroken is a word I understand.
You know this about me because you have read my books.
I get it.
I have lived it.
I have written it.
In this life, I have sometimes had to let go of my expectations of others who don’t love me in return. The grief of separation feels like death. It can’t be changed. I still love deeply and pray more, but I must square my shoulders and set off in a new direction.
As I grow more in age and wisdom, I know with certainty that every heartbreaking “Goodbye”, has an eternally joyful “Hello”, waiting at the finish line in heaven .
I talk to the Lord about it if I have been hurt by, or separated from, those I love.
I tell Him that I understand why he said “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.”
Bottom line - Jesus died not only for my sins, and HE DIED FOR THE SINS WHICH OTHERS COMMITTED AGAINST ME.
I FORGIVE EVERYONE.
That’s a requirement. "Forgive As Jesus forgives me.”
Dear beloved friends and family,
The great Heavenly reunion is coming.
Cry if you must, it’s okay.
Just know this - He will wipe every tear.
Don’t let anyone discourage you!
I send you all so much love today.
I look forward to our happy reunion in heaven.
You both are much loved by all of us that have been so blessed by your books and posts on Facebook.
Looking forward to eternity as each day brings us a little closer.
Been praying for you! So sorry for the heart ache you are experiencing! Love you!
Thank you, Bodie. Appreciate this very much today. I have lost several people this year to death who meant a lot to me. My oldest brother, as strange as it may seem, Rush Limbaugh (who for over 30 years helped me to clarify my conservative thoughts) & just 2 weeks ago, my beloved pastor of over 35 years. (none of these to covid). We also lost a dear brother in Cuba to covid last week. But you are right, the harder part comes when people willingly separate over life's circumstances. I have found, that many may not completely separate, but relationships get very distant over things like covid & politics and these cooling of relationships are very painful.
Bodie, I've been missing your posts. And praying everything was OK. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. You are a warrior, and I pray protection over you and your family. Hugs and lots of love.