For SK

I think Emily Dickinson wrote it best in that one poem on death.

I am no stranger to death, but it's always surprising and unexpected when it shows up in my neighborhood.

A friend of mine that I've known for almost 20 years had recently passed from lymphoma. She had been dealing with it for the last few years but really had to fight it these last few months.

It is disheartening to know that she and I were the same age. We had more or less grew up, graduated, and came back to serve in the same church. What is more disheartening is the void that is left in all the lives that had been graced by her presence.  

She was one of the sweetest and most caring people I knew. If we were of the Catholic persuasion, she definitely would have been on the short list for sainthood. I always balked at the saying of "wouldn't hurt a fly," but I now see that as true when I think back on her character.

It is of and should be a comfort to know that Heaven has now welcomed her to its fold.

My writings here today may not do her justice, but I want to remember who she was when I look back to this and when time eventually robs us of our memory.

SK, you are and will be dearly missed.

building empires state of mind

Matthew 6:19-20.

More recently I've been reminded of these verses after my most recent trip to the Empire State and as I assume, not so incidentally enough, as I was sitting in church service this morning.

My repose there was not long enough and left me wanting for more, both physically and psychologically. All details of said trip will be posted via another outlet of social media. Hit me up if you're curious!

One constant thought that has pervaded my psyche after I've left is the want for more. It's been stewing for some years now and I think it has come to a head as I near the end of my "turbulent 20s." (I know, this cries 1st world angst)

At my very core, I am wanting to build several empires for me to rule. To prove to myself that I can and that I am master of my domain. Yet, the ever nagging thought that accompanies these delusions of grandeur is: when will all these empires collapse on themselves?

What I find even more amusing as I muse and write on this subject is that today is Selection Sunday 2015 and the Ides of March. Both events are reminders of one's race to the top. Yet, they are also reminders of how one's race to the top can be cut down at any moment.

I'm not saying we shouldn't want more, far from it! But to be remind and temper one's megalomania with some needed truth: Philippians 2:3-4. 

Don't get me wrong, all of what I'm writing ain't easy. Then again, all that is worth doing is never easy. I've got a LONG road ahead if I'm to achieve this ideal. God help me.