Hello constant readers whomever you may be. I've been putting off writing this post, because it is not something that I enjoy talking about, in fact, it is one of the hardest things to talk about. In fact, before starting my writing today, I hesitated to give this post the title that first came to my mind. But after reflecting for a few moments, I realized that there is no need to sugar coat it because the Lord has already done that for us in the best possible way. So I unashamedly confront my emotions for all to see and hope that my words will be of comfort to someone. My goal for this post is to type what I feel prompted to type. Though I try to not to be too religious on my blog, I feel that in this instance I need to be, for my feelings on this subject are too tied up in my spiritual beliefs for any attempts at separation. Yesterday was one of the worst days I had had in a long time. Not only did I start off the day with financial problems, which I won't go into now, but I also found out that one of the most beautiful people that I have ever known passed away. I admit that he and I were not best friends, but we knew each other well and I shared some very beautiful moments with him in my life. That person was my friend Kristopher Jude King. I couldn't believe the news. This was one of those classic moments where you actually find yourself doubting the wisdom of Heavenly Father for a little bit. I remember thinking, "Why?" "Why would one of the most guileless, selfless, loving, and caring people be chosen to die at this the very prime of his life?" My feelings of doubt didn't last long, however, as I realized that as soon as I had asked the question I had received the answer. Kris died because Heavenly Father needed him to work by his side in the spirit world and he had accomplished everything that he needed to accomplish in this life. Though I received the answer, I chose to attend a session at the temple that very afternoon so I could be reminded of the beauty of Heavenly Father's plan for us. As I soaked in the glorious spirit that was present in the House of the Lord, I felt so grateful for the knowledge that I possess about the great plan of salvation. Through the grace and kindness of our Heavenly Father, we can know for ourselves that we will be able to see our loved ones who have passed on again someday. As I surrendered myself to the service of others in the temple yesterday, I was able to forget my own sorrows and feel better enough to carry on with my responsibilities. Kris knew this too. He lived his life in a way that I know was exemplary to our Heavenly Father and I know that he is happy now that he has returned to his heavenly home. I only pray that it doesn't take an awakening like this to help remind me to ever be grateful for the tender mercies of the Lord. The lesson I guess I wish to impress upon my readers is to never take a moment for granted. This life is a blessing from our Heavenly Father and we never know when it will be time for us to go. Kris's death came without warning, but he was prepared. I hope that we will all take his example to heart and truly enjoy every moment of every day while we still can. For in this way, we show our love to Heavenly Father and our older brother Jesus Christ for the beautiful world that they have given us to live in and be a part of. In closing I share a poem written by church President Gordon B. Hinckley at the passing of his dear wife, Marjorie Pay Hinckley. It has brought me comfort in many a dark time and I hope that all of my friends who knew Kris will take comfort in the Lord and in each other during this hard time that we have to be separated from our friend. We'll see him again. :)
What is this thing that men call death?
This quiet passing in the night?
'Tis not the end, but genesis
Of better worlds and greater light.
O God, touch Thou my aching heart
And calm my troubled, haunting fears.
Let hope and faith, transcendent, pure,
Give strength and peace beyond my tears.
There is no death, but only change,
With recompense for victory won
The gift of Him, who loved all men.
The Son of God, the Holy One.
Much love to you, my friends and family. And Godspeed, my dear friend Kris. Rest in peace until we meet again.
More to come....
