As I typed the title just now I can hardly continue. The journey needs to pause and to remember. My dear friend Penny entered the gates of heaven yesterday early afternoon. We were on our way to be with her and Dave when Dave text saying Penny was gone. As we walked into their home, we could only give love and support to a grieving husband and a few others who were there. 

This morning I text Dave to share with him my love and support knowing there would be little sleep last night for him. He quickly responded with the truth of that, but also with his reflections of so many loving memories. It was after this that I had finished my devotional reading and bible reading. I then took my prayer list and began to pray over those listed. I came to Dave and Penny. I know I am to rejoice that Penny is no longer suffering from the cancer-ravaged body, but for a moment I just lost it. I know this is needed for my emotional release, but, selfishly, I don’t want to have Penny gone and Dave alone. We have cherished their relationship with us and our family. 

I do celebrate in my heart the beauty of Penny’s reality now. I truly do and I know that grieving is necessary. I even write this blog today as part of my expression of grief. I know that humor and liveliness will return. Just for this moment I need to express the pain of loss for one of God’s greatest gifts of friendship–Penny Poppinga.