eight years

 

It is a date that never catches me by surprise, an anniversary that is not met with anticipation.  The heart and mind never forget...

 

 

It is a day that we indulge the sadness, not because we are without hope, but simply because we miss him, and our human hearts long for his presence.  

And, while my heart and mind attempt to linger in the past, recalling the many moments we shared, the sound of his voice, his laughter, and bashful smile, I am brought back to our present reality.  He is no longer here.

 

And, so we wait with expectant hearts for the day when our tears are no more, and not a trace of sadness remains.

 

Until then, we will continue to remember.  We will continue to answer the honest questions asked by the nieces and nephew who never had the opportunity to know their Uncle Brad this side of heaven. 

 

"When will he come back?"

 

"Is this the year he comes back?"

 

"Can I show him my light sabers in heaven?"

"Is he hungry?"

 

"Can we have light saber battles in heaven?"

"Will he eat string cheese in heaven?"

 

"Is he with Jesus?"

 

We will cherish the love and curiosity they have for a man who would have loved them well and marveled over each of their unique personalities, because he was a man who took the time to get to know others.

 

We will take these conversations for what they are, tender mercies, a reminder that while he not physically present, he is not forgotten...

 

and never will be.