Richard L.
Evans once wrote:
"The swift passing of the seasons brings all of us at time to think upon
the length of life, as friends and loved ones come and leave, and as we
ourselves face always such uncertainties. Not one of us knows how
long he will live, how long his loved ones will live. "No one can be ignorant
that he must die," said Cicero, "nor be sure that he may not this very
day." But beyond all this -- beyond all fretting, worrying, and brooding
about the length of life -- there is evidence everywhere to quiet our hearts,
to give us peace and faith for the future, and assurances that we can count
on. Spring returned again this year. We knew it would -- and
it did. And just so surely as all this, life has purpose, plan, and
pattern that includes eternal continuance with loved ones waiting.
And with all sorrows, loss of loved ones, loneliness, there is this that
we may know: That in a universe which runs so well, the Power who
runs it well is that same Power who knows each human heart, and quiets
and softens sorrow, and gives assurances we so much seek, as each day brings
its undisclosed events. We come; we live; we leave. Our loved
ones leave -- but we and they live always and forever. Don't fret.
Don't doubt. Don't cling to grieving. Don't fight life, or
give up, or brood, or be bitter and rebellious, or let go of faith in the
future. All of us know loneliness; all of us search ourselves, and
ask for answers. Trust Him, who has done so much so well, to do all
things well. Trust Him to bring peace and comfort and quietness and
assurance to your soul inside. "Once more the Heavenly Power makes
all things new." (Alfred, Lord Tennyson, "Early
Spring"). This you can count on."