For Rhonda on the Death of Her Dad

To Rhonda Robinson, On the Death of Her Father
July 12, 2013

There are no words that can comfort you or bring Big John back.

There is no way that I can comfort you or heal your heart that has been so badly cracked

But tomorrow or the day after when you need a word of encouragement

Maybe just maybe you will look through all the cards and letters and find a few words to brighten your heart

Today, the earth (heart) is saturated with rain.  The skies (eyes) are grey.  Sadness (mind) fills your heart as your Father is taken away.  What can you do to fill the void, to clear your head, to have sunny thoughts as you face this dreary sunless day (the funeral)? 

You can lift your eyes unto the hills for wince cometh your help?  Your help will come from the Lord who made heaven and earth.  He knows the troubles of your mind, the weariness of the day, and the passing of an era of time.  Being all knowing and all wise, He knew this day would come, and that you would need Him to see you through it.  So rejoice and be exceedingly glad for the Lord is still in His temple; let all the earth keep silent before Him.

My love, dry your eyes.  Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for He (God) promised to go and prepare a place for us, so that where He is, there we shall be also. Be comforted in His (God’s) words, and hold dear and close to you always, the one (your Father) that you love.  You will get through this.

Cry sometime.  Feel sad.  Feel alone.  The main thing is to feel.  Big John would have never wanted you to stop feeling.
Reach out for help, should you need it for help will always be near
Don't be afraid to share your feelings or your emotions, but be careful with whom you share them
Sometimes, the road will feel unbearable, but you will get through it.

Hold your children close and remember Big John with them.  Tell them his stories, and laugh out loud
Big John was a character, larger than life, and full of spice.  He was.  He lived. Your Dad.
To keep him alive is to keep him in your mind and to share him often.
So through all of your sorrows and feelings today, know there is a brighter tomorrow.

Loving you always, and standing in prayer on your behalf, I remain, Malinda Miles