 |
| Aunt Vivian & Uncle Monroe (1978) |
When my mother died in October 2002 my cousin Patsy
and husband Wes traveled from Jacksonville to attend the service in Bradenton—well
over 400 miles round trip. I have always appreciated the special effort and
affection shown. Today some 9 years
later my wife Kathy and I returned the favor.
The funeral service for my Aunt Vivian was held today in Jacksonville
and we traveled from Saint Petersburg to attend. My Aunt Vivian and Uncle Monroe overcame a
major challenge earlier in their lives.
It was mentioned in today’s service.
That challenge was a strong affinity for alcohol. For a time, it largely filled their spiritual
hunger displacing even the worship of God.
But this all changed as time passed and they developed a strong faith
and the joy of salvation. It was refreshing
to hear a funeral address that mentioned an unpleasant fact in the life of the
deceased and did not paint over real challenges met and overcome. [Aunt Vivian as you dance in heaven say a
prayer for me that I may likewise overcome the idols and addictions that always
seem to threaten joy and happiness on earth.]
Print Page
