Life Longs for Itself

Before turning the page for this week, I reflect on our activities the past seven days, which certainly underscores how 'life longs for itself.' Monday, we traveled to the warm and comfortable community of Polo, Illinois, where granddaughter, Lindsay begins her first year teaching elementary education. Lindsay is a 22-year old 'keeper' who made a wide personal accomplishment path before embracing a teaching mission. Lindsay is prepared, excited and over concerned with a myriad of details. She will, in time, gain her stride and impact hundreds of lives.

Later in the week, we paid respects and tribute to Bill Kaufmann a long time educator at the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired. Bill is the father of four children, one of which is Andy who played high school basketball for me before completing an outstanding career at the University of Illinois. Before leaving Jacksonville, we had pizza with daughter, Pam and son-in law Tim at the Irish Toad.

Saturday, we prepared to entertain long time friends, Ken and Sharon Hickman as they made their way through Decatur returning from Covington, Indiana. They were visiting Ken's father who is under hospice care in the final weeks of his wonderful life. Often, people toss the 'friendship' label about rather carefree with loose and broad definition. The Hickmans are documented friends over forty-years. During these difficult days keeping the vigil, Ken and Sharon anticipate with great excitement the birth of their first granddaughter and third grandchild. Did I not state that 'life longs for itself?'

Yesterday, we were in Edwardsville, Illinois to visit and have a luncheon with my ninety-three year old Mother, Lucille and SIUE sophomore grandson, Kyle. Before departing the Metro-East area, we stopped by to visit with oldest grandchild and sixth-year special education teacher, Amanda, husband Todd and great-grandson, Talin. What an absolute joyous week.

We make plans for this week in accordance with God's plan and shall embrace the moments as this life keeps its longing.