"Overwhelmed" by Rev Sheryl Kinder-Pyle
These last few weeks I have been overwhelmed. My father died on January 14th. He had struggled with complications from a massive stroke for 16 years. Yes, he was a fighter (and a stubborn German!) I received many gifts. The first gift was that my brother from Ottawa, Ontario, and my sister from Serrig, Germany, and I were all able to gather before he died and he knew that we each were there. We encircled him with love and prayers and song and encouraged him to “go home” whenever he was ready. He died as we all held hands.
The next gift was the love and compassion and care that I have received from you. I have been touched by your emails, your cards, your calls. When I have seen you, you have asked me how I am doing and I have appreciated the opportunity to talk and share my grief. Sharing my grief with my faith community has been a powerful experience. By the power of the Spirit my spirits were lifted. As a pastor, (oops Forrest, TE!) I have been with people at the moment of death before, done grief counseling, service planning and all. It was different on this side. On the outside it appears that he went quickly—just two days after I arrived. Sitting with him, however, listening to every breath like a new parent made the time go so slowly.
I am grateful for my father's life, for my family, for dear friends. I have a deepened appreciation for my faith community and my Lord that sustains me.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not
let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. John 14:27
Blessings,
Sheryl
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