"No distance of place or lapse of time can lessen the friendship of those who are thoroughly persuaded of each other's worth."
Over the weekend, it is fair to say that I was hit, not with one bomb, but two. My heart is still breaking over the fact that two of my very best friends are moving away this summer. My words cannot do justice on how much they both mean to me and how each one has impacted my life. While I know they are responding to God's calling to work in other mission fields, my happiness is selfishly dimmed. I have no doubt that they will be a blessing where ever they may go. Heaven is rejoicing in the fact that it has two God fearing men, spreading the gospel, touching lives, and winning souls for the Kingdom.
I have been listening to the lyrics of Michael W. Smith's song Friends are Friends Forever and it has given me comfort-- and while I know I will miss them like CRAZY-- we will forever be friends... and one day we'll be able to spend eternity together in Heaven! I am anticipating that day!
"Packing up the dreams God's planted, in the fertile soil of you. I can't believe the hopes He's granted, means a chapter in your life is though. But I'll keep you close as always. It won't even seem you've gone. Because our hearts in big and small ways will keep the love that keeps us strong.
And friends are friends forever, if the Lord's the Lord of them. And a friend will not say never, because the welcome will not end. Though it's hard to let you go, In the Father's hands I know, That a lifetime's not too long, to live as friends."
** I have informed both young men that they should be expecting frequent visits -- It's the me thing to do.
Thank you Tristan for always having a listening ear, keeping me focused, on the right track, and building me up. I still might call you for a debriefing now and again. :-) Thank you for being a great friend. I praise God for bringing you into my life it would not be the same without you.
Thank you Micheal for being you, making me laugh, being supportive and always encouraging me to reach for more. I will always smile when I think of you and all the wonderful memories we have! Thank you for being a wonderful friend. I praise God for bringing you into my life. I would not be the same without you.
Many, Many Blessings and Love to Tristan and Micheal.
