A time to ponder about what's most important.

This past week, our family lost the life of of loved one due to a disease called Cystic Fibrosis. Though there are many tears and it is hard to say goodbye, we have found comfort from our Savior. As my Uncle said, this is not a time for mourning, it is a time to celebrate his life, after all, he beat the odds by living longer than expected and his life was full and happy. I have to mention, at his funeral yesterday, by my cousins request, we sang his favorite primary song, Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree (with hand actions). It made us smile and laugh as we remembered the kind of person Chad was. It lifted our hearts, I know he did that for us and I thank Chad for that.

I miss my cousin, and will continue to miss him, but I am at peace. His battle is over, and he is no longer trying to figure out where his next breath will come from. He is with Grandma who can't give him enough hugs and kisses, and Grandpa who is probably telling a joke right now. I know they are taking care of him. He is meeting so many people and is finally serving his mission in paradise, just like he always knew he would.

This loss has made me realize how much I love my family. I am thankful for my knowledge of the Plan of Salvation. I am thankful for the Temple, where I am sealed to my family for Eternity, and for the opportunities I have to give others this same blessing. I have a non-member friend who said to me, "Don't worry, you know more than me about these things. I wish I could believe in Eternal Life." I am thankful for my faith. I am thankful for prayer, and for the many prayers on behalf of my cousins family.

Below is the poem that my other cousin wrote for his brother. It touched and brought comfort to my heart.

Welcome Home

I saw them today for the first time in years,
It took some time to get past all the tears.
The tears weren't from pain, or sorrow, or grief,
But from joy, laughter, comfort, and relief.

They took me in their arms and told me of their love,
And welcomed me to this Grand Kingdom above.
We then went to see the Father and the Son,
And on the way we talked about the things to be done.

When I saw Him I stopped, and my joy then did fill,
And I could not move no matter my will.
He came and embraced me my spirit was whole,
He said I lived well and fulfilled my role.

He looked into my eyes, nowhere else did they roam,
As he said, "I love you, my son. Welcome home."

Jamie Thornton