When Randy learned that my Dad was seriously ill with cancer, he simply asked for where we were, and he hopped in the car and drove the six hours to sit with Dad. Randy then hopped back in the car and drove six hours home. During that time with Randy, I saw my Dad relax for a bit, and Dad came back to us for a little while. Those were a few hours which I'll never forget. Randy gave us a gift so precious. The gift of time and love. That seemed to be the theme through out all the stories I heard today.
I am struck by how blessed I am to have so many Godly men who've absolutely poured out their lives for their loved ones. My Dad had his faults, I am not saying he was a saint or trying to put him on a pedestal. He made many hurtful choices, especially when he was younger and before he had accepted Jesus into his heart. But this I know. My Dad Loved Me. When he didn't have to. I wasn't blood. He poured out his life for me and my siblings. Randy did the same for his family, especially after Randy was changed by his acceptance of Jesus as his lord and savior. I listened to Randy's daughters speak of how he cared for their needs, spiritual and physical, and I'm struck by the many parallels. These men were too young to go, but they left an impression on those left behind. I have difficulty thinking of Randy singularly without also recollecting my Dad. For me, they were so close as brothers, that in my mind they had a a strong bond. Perhaps this was a divinely inspired bond due to the burdens they would bear. Only God can answer these and many other questions I have.
I choose to trust that God has a purpose in taking them when He did. I know this is what Randy would've wanted. We will continue to mourn, as he touched so many on so deep a level. But we must remember, he is with his Lord. And we will see him again. I know many miss him in the waiting. My Cup Runneth Over to have had these men in my life at all.
