From my reflections on 1/15/2017:
“Few things are as satisfying as coming to the end of a day and having the sense that it has been a rare day in which life has been lived well. One of the joys of growing older is that, if one is living with intentionality to live each day well, then there are generally more of those kinds of days than not. I am blessed to come to the end of most days with that satisfied sense of having known God’s presence, having seen opportunities that have come from God’s hand, and having said “yes”.
January 15, 2022:
It’s been that same kind of day today. Ms. Bernie’s homegoing celebration was very touching and sweet. One young lady came from Atlanta just to be here for it. She had grown up with Ms Bernie as a neighbor and Ms Bernie had nurtured and encouraged the young lady’s parents since their marriage at ages 17 and 19. Both of them came, as well, now in their 60’s. Other friends and neighbors came and enjoyed looking at the display of her photos and mementoes that I had arranged. A letter from a couple whose life she significantly impacted while they were at Tyndall AFB was received and shared, as well as a tribute by the former mayor of Parker, another friend, and me. A gift of flowers from Titus 2 was beautiful. Pastor Danny Davis’ message focused on a song I had heard Bernie singing one night as she faded in and out of present-moment consciousness- “Living for Jesus.” I still have a few details to close out on her behalf, but I believe we have all honored her and acknowledged that her life, too, was lived well and made a difference in many lives.