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| Our family joined us in Florida last January (Click on the pictures to view enlargements) |
I have tried to start writing this year's Christmas letter several times. I just couldn't. We talk about how our social media posts reflect our best lives (meaning, unrealistic depictions of how wonderfully things have gone). Honestly, this has not been a best year. We expect most of you know why. But here goes.
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| We visited Dan and Lauren in Chicago for Linda's birthday |
This year we lost a grandchild. Daughter-in-law Lauren carried Saoirse nearly to term but then lost her. We also lost a beloved dog and a wonderful cousin. While we would never want to suggest the magnitude of the other two losses compare, all three have hit us and hard. Caring people in our lives have shared their stories of similar losses, and that honestly helps. But of course it cannot absorb all the grief. We talk of this from time to time. We know that we have led blessed lives. We know we still have many things for which we must thank God. We know may others have suffered equal or greater pain. And for the most part, we press on without too much difficulty. But wow, how tough it can be.
We take solace from the blessings the year has brought, especially from the important people in our lives. Our three surviving parents soldier on, giving us incredible examples of perseverance. Our church continues to support us with kindness and love. And our children and grandchildren just keep blessing us.
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| Rory loves swinging. |
Daughter Laura has taken a leave of absence from teaching. Four year-old Theo and two year-old Rory have proven too big a magnet. Theo has become an expert on the solar system, Rory on attracting her big brother's attention.
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| Someday Theo may actually grow as tall |
Dan and Lauren split their lives between Indianapolis and Chicago, where he pursues his masters in public health/data. Lauren recently got an employment upgrade, with a job that matches her values and commitments. We are happy for this piece of good news.
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| The four brothers at our mom's 90th birthday celebration |
As for Linda and I, we keep moving forward. She makes regular trips to Carmel to clean and to indulge her grandchildren, and to Bloomington to support her parents. I do my part to support my mother and what remains of her business, and I have the opportunity to pastor a superb congregation. We do recognize that our gains outweigh our losses.
May your losses not prove to heavy to bear. And may blessings adorn your lives.
