 |
| Youthful Bob |
A lot of who I am today is because of the influence that Bob had in my life. I know that I have heard many of you speak of the influence that Bob had on your life through counseling or his writing. Imagine 19 years of time with him and you can imagine the influence.
 |
| Our last family picture in December 2009 (hasn't Noah changed?!). |
Although he has now been gone for 4.5 years, he is not forgotten. If you ask my students, they will tell you that I refer to Bob every day when I teach. I now have to clarify between "my husband" and "my late husband" but the impact that Bob had on my life and the majority of stories that I have to tell are of the time with Bob as my husband.
I don't ever want to forget him, our marriage, or the love we had. There are three days per year where I will take the opportunity to share: his birthday, our anniversary, and the day I said goodbye. But every day I remember him in one way or another. My heart aches for how much he has missed as our children continue to grow - and even more so for how much my children have missed in having their father witness their life and use his wise words to direct them.
As my friend recently wrote, grief does change us and we don't forget our loved ones, no matter how life may have changed in the years since their passing. We are encouraged to reinvest in life and not stay stuck in grief. I'm thankful to God that I have been able to do that, and have been able to continue to live into my calling and even accept a new calling.
Until we meet again.
 |
| Bob, with Rev. Zar by his side. I'm assuming they have connected in heaven. |
 |
| Last picture taken of Bob on earth, in Nigeria, two days before he died. |
1 comment:
My darling Renita, my first message to you that helped bring us where we are today was a remembrance of Bob, and my genuine sorrow for your loss. Little did I realize then that your beautiful heart had mourned him well, holding on to those treasures he brought to you, discovering who you are without his presence. I was and am amazed beyond words that your love for Bob was healthy enough that loving again once death did you part was not inconceivable. I cheered you on as a friend in that realization...not knowing at first that I was the one called to love you now. Bob is fully worthy to remain alive in your heart and in the hearts of Hannah and Noah who will also remember their holy dates he helped forge in their lives. As I am part of the tapestry now, I want all to see (so please post this), that I celebrate his life with you, that I love you that you can mourn a man God gave you to cherish for 19 years even while loving well a man God calls you in his mysterious wisdom to love now and who vows and celebrates his own love for you now. Love you I do...and not as you do, but miss Bob too. Your husband, your friend, your companion through these memories, Michael
Post a Comment