Rarely are we prepared for our friends and loved ones to leave so abruptly and untimely. Such is the case here as well. I'm hesitant to reveal how I feel about funerals as I have experienced too many and dread to think of my own. There is so very much grief and sadness that comes upon us with no time to prepare. We strive to be strong and numbly go through the motions in this trying to "be strong" for one another and in a haze we go through it until it's over. Then the days follow and we realize what has happened and must face the reality of what to do next. Oh, the challange that lies ahead! Everyone else seems to show genuine concern and heartfelt sympathy but their tomorrow is not so different as ours. We must face the coming days with our life changed entirely and there's no way in the world to prepare. We are lonely, angry and hurting and most don't fully understand. At times like this our refuge is in our relationship with the Creator of the Universe and how real our God reveals Himself to us. He will never leave nor forsake us! My prayer is that this family will cling to these truths to sustain them as they gradually move from one day to the next and trust God to keep His promises! I love you and will constantly be praying for His comfort for you in this most trying time.