A day full of shocking news

It's never easy to have someone you know pass away, specially if it's sudden. Today is an extremely hard day for me and Frendell, for we woke up today hearing news that one of our elders from Chicago Fil-am church, Uncle Aurelio Aguila, died suddenly sometime last night. I am still in shock and can't seem to accept the fact that he's gone. He is one of the nicest man I've ever met. He always has a smile on his face and he always tells me that he's praying for me. He and his wife went on the Holy Land tour with Frendell and they both enjoyed their time there. Such an unexpected turn of events. I never thought he would die this soon. He always lived a healthy lifestyle and is so strong in his faith. I will miss him and his smiling face. He was always kind and I've never heard him say anything bad about someone else. He truly loved God and was always sharing this with others.

When we got home this evening, we got an email from another friend telling us that one of our members while Frendell was a pastor at West Central Church, Dr. Gloria Mouzon, also died yesterday. I am so sad to hear this. Gloria was a very generous friend to us, and when we were there, she would take me to the opera, knowing that Frendell didn't like operas. I admired her forthright approach and she was very dedicated to her family, friends, patients and church family. She helped me find an open MRI when I had to get one done when I first injured my back. I have fond memories of Gloria during our stay at West Central.

Wow!! If this is not a wake-up call, I don't know what is. Life is a gift, not to be taken for granted. Cultivating relationships, growing our faith, sharing our blessings are all opportunities that are given each day... what will I do with this gift today? I want to tell all my family and friends how much they mean to me. I want to tell them all that I love them and that in knowing each and everyone of them, I have experienced growth and hope and love. I pray that I never take my opportunities for granted. I pray that I will try and live my life for God's glory and honor so that when it is my time to go, people who have known me will see God's love reflected in my life. An easy thought, very hard to live it. I still can't believe all that's happened today... I feel so very sad and full of grief. For everything there is a season... a time to live and a time to die.... I hope I am ready when I am called. Good night... may you have peace and rest tonight. And Uncle Eli and Gloria, I will see you on that day when Jesus will come back and take us all home to heaven. Sleep for now and I will see you then.