It's been a week of goodbyes. While one was a final farewell, the other two were of the "until we meet again" variety. All were accompanied by mixed emotions
First there was the return of two young men to their native land. Sam and Fred, definitely not their real names, spent the last six weeks at the neighbour's home while attending summer school in our city. During that time they worked on improving their English language skills, to say nothing of displaying a voracious appetite for and consumption of Canadian food. We said goodbye to them last evening and by the time this piece goes to press they will be settled back in China. We got to know them a bit but I doubt that we'll ever see them again.
A very special visit this week from my brother and his wife brought great joy. They also brought a lot of fun and food - not a bad way to spend a few days together. We laughed, visited, shopped, ate and sang together. They left yesterday morning but there was no emptiness in their going. Our time together could not have been better and nothing will take away from the pleasure and the memories of simply being with family. I look forward to the next time we get together.
Finally, we said goodbye to a dear friend this week. Bill passed into the presence of Jesus after suffering for several years but sadness is mitigated with celebration; we will miss him terribly but we cannot help but celebrate his entry into the immediate presence of the Lord He loved. Until we meet again, Bill.
"Finally, brethren, farewell. Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you." (2 Corinthians 13:11 NKJV)
