"Change is inevitable, Growth is intentional."
The last couple of weeks I have found myself with feelings of sorrow. Sorrow anticipating that on July 9th, it will be two years since dad died. On July 9, 2010, we were getting ready to celebrate...celebrate my oldest son, Thomas' 17th birthday. My phone rang as Rebecca and I were picking up some last minute items for Thomas' party...our celebration turned into sorrow.
I was looking through some of Sara's quotes tonight and this one stood out to me..."Change is inevitable, Growth is intentional." Isn't that true with everything in life? Things are always going to change, whether it is at work or in our personal life, change is inevitable.
Two years ago on July 9th, was the start of significant changes in my families life. We lost one of the greatest men on earth (according to us anyway). I know Sara already shared a lot about dad...his gentleness, unwavering trust in God, gentle spirit, LOVE for life, family and friends, and on and on it goes.
What I also know about dad, is that he would not want us to be sorrowful, he would want us to be intentional about celebrating. Celebrating a life lived to its fullest, celebrating a man who was the greatest dad, husband, son, brother, uncle, friend, etc. that God could have blessed us with.
Thomas told me he and grandpa now share a very special day. Sure, there is our human sorrow that will always be there because we miss his big heart...his big life. But, we will not only celebrate Thomas' birthday on July 9, we will also celebrate dad.
Dad was not only a role model to me, but was also a role model to my children, his grandchildren. Dad taught us all to live intentionally, so that is what we will do. We will take the change that God gives us and intentionally use it to grow...grow in His glory.
Because as Sara would say..."This world is not about us, it's about what He does through us."
Let's intentionally celebrate life today...July 9th...
(Happy 19th birthday, Thomas)
I am going to celebrate the life of my dad and my son, Thomas. I am so very proud of and grateful for them both! Thanks, God for blessing me...big! I love you both..."all the way around the world and back." ~Gitz
...and into the heavens...
Thanks also for each of your continued love and prayers....we are grateful for all of you!
~Laura