We're driving to Southern California today to join some old friends from our Northridge ward days in celebrating the life of a very fine man. The service is scheduled for tomorrow morning, so we'll be spending the night with my sister before heading home in the afternoon. That's a lot of driving for two consecutive days, but a little car time with the bishop as a captive audience sounds pretty good to me. (And I don't even have an appointment!) Besides, just being there will be worth the miles.
Northridge ward was our first as a married couple, and we had all four of our children under its watchful eye. The ward felt like a sheltering tree for two new parents; and strangely enough, it still does. We haven't lived in the area for over 20 years, but the last time we went back, it was as though we'd never left.
The reason is the saddest one imaginable. The reunion will be joyful. And isn't that how it goes in life?
"For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so, my first-born in the wilderness, righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad. Wherefore, all things must needs be a compound in one..."(2 Nephi 2:11).
13 comments:
That is the most wonderful feeling. Whether it be a neighborhood, a ward, old friends. Though the time passes - ths spirit and warmth stays the same.
Kristin
What a beautiful post.
I love those places that make you feel like home- safe and secure and loved. I have some friends like that and it's so nice to just pick up where we were the last time we visited.
LOVE that picture and love the sentiment.
It IS odd that at the times of most distress and sadness in our lives we can also derive the most joy and comfort from family and close friends. How lovely of you to take the time to drive down. He must have been a wonderful friend.
The bitter and the sweet, intertwined...such is life. I'll be thinking of you.
Ah, That your ward is in my mission! Of course I never served there (I was spanish) but I so love the area. I am sorry for your loss, but excited for you to go out and see your old friends. Enjoy your visit and your car ride.
Is there a better feeling than being welcomed by old friends??
I'm certain you have many many who love you tons.
Have a sweet weekend and come home safely!
How I would love to be able to go to the funeral too and to see you, even for a few hours. Unfortunately, it just wasn't a good time for us. It is neat though that you are going and I know it will be nice for you to see a lot of old friends. I hate that your friend had to die at such a young age. I'm sure the family will be happy that you cared enough to make that long trip just to be there for the funeral. That's what friends are for, and old friends are truly precious.
Oh I hope it will be a sweet reunion for you in spite of the not so good reason for going.
I hope you have a nice reunion and a good visit despite the circumstances...Old friends are always to be cherished.
I hope all goes well. It is always great to see old friends, especially in a wonderful and beloved ward. Sorry it is under sad circumstances.
Sue, I'm so sorry to hear about your friend. This was a thoughtful post. I've been meaning to get on your blog for a few days now, as I've fallen behind in my blogging!
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