On Sunday nite my daddy passed away in his bed in Carlsbad, NM. Many of you know that for years my dad was on oxygen due to emphysema and other smoking related problems. Mike and I knew that when we said goodbye to him before coming here it would very likely be my last hug and kiss. I guess I just didn't expect it to happen in 3 months. No, I wasn't prepared. I am on my way to New Mexico tonite to be with my mom and family. It will be good to be together. Yesterday during that Beth Moore Bible Study ....about the time my daddy was taking his last breath...Beth took us into the Holy of Holies...beyond the veil. Where our hope is truly anchored. I am blown away by God's timing and message just for me. Intimacy with Him. That is what life is truly about...and death. What happens here, well, it's just a moment in time...preparation for when we are really living. So, I am comforted, not in what this world has to offer but in my hope....not that kind of wishful thinking hope but REAL hope....Heb.6:19,20 We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. So, I am comforted.
I am sorry if I am rambling, but I have found in my life that when I am in the midst of something soul wrenching, I ramble.
21 Years ago when my daddy was diagnosed with COPD or emphysema or whatever it all was...We were sure he was going to die right then. But he lived on to meet 4 more of his grandchildren and watch all 6 of them grow into great kids and adults. (Well, Robert and Sallie are still young but he did get to spend time with them.) We are so thankful for those years, years of laughter and sweet conversations and even some tough discussions about life. When daddy was diagnosed in 1986 I wrote a poem to him. While going thru all of our papers and stuff before moving here, I found a rough draft and for some reason....stuck it in my journal. It is not a contest winner by any means, but I'd like you to meet my dad...
My Dad, My Friend
The joy you brought so lovingly
fills my thoughts unceasingly.
I cannot shake these memories,
they mean so very much to me.
A rocking chair with hugs to share,
swimming, skiing, bowling, sailing.
La Cuenta, por favor!
All this with you and more...
Your eyes that twinkle you gave to me
We've talked and shared, You always cared.
I can't imagine what life would be
if God hadn't given you to me.
Dad, could I sit in your lap again?
And tell you what you mean to me?
I love you Dad, I always will
My Dad, my friend...Peace, be still.
The last line just came to me right now. Anyway, there you have it.
Don Deahl, born November 27th, 1924 died November 11th, 2007
Thank You, Jesus, for the best dad a gal could ask for...
Love you all. Thanks for praying.
Matt
