We vividly remember this day last year when the world stood still and started spiraling all at once. Our hearts squeezed with grief as our minds resisted the words through the phone.
"Now we see through the glass darkly....we know [only] in part" 1 Corinthians 13:12
The world kept moving. Life's demands waved over us. We had to march through the shadows....through the darkness.
It hasn't been an easy road.
You had a gift for making others feel special. There was standing room only at your service as friends/family spilled out the back [ of the church ] filling the library. Ryan captured your essence so poignantly,
"If you knew Ross, you probably knew he was all about family. And if you were lucky enough to be his friend, he treated you as if you were a part of his family"
Your priority was people. You invested in others. Your easy smile, gentle eyes and tender heart made you approachable. You were quick to lend a hand; help a friend. You were loyal. You always spoke highly of Ryan to others. You helped shape the man he has become. He too is proud of you. You impacted so many people. Your neighbor's lit their roof with the letters: ROSS on your birthday. Your brother, wife, parents and close friends gathered at your favorite camp ground.
You are not forgotten.
It has been tough on Ryan. He looks at the bond between our boys and sees you and him. As a father he can imagine the depth of your parents' loss. He clings to the memories you wove together. We talk about you often. We share stories with our boys.
You live on.
Gardens have been planted in your memory. We tend to them in your honor. We find solace in their beauty. Though the flowers/plants seem still when observed, they are always changing. Growing. Evolving. They adjust to their surroundings. They bend towards the light.
At times we feel stuck in our grief.
Still.
Yet we're evolving. Adjusting to the newness of loss. Our hearts bending towards brightness.
Your memory lighting the glass.
We all love and miss you!
Love,
Laura
