letter to B---, originally written on December 12, 2007

You must remember to savor the sweetness of life. It is too short, and there are many moments that are less than pleasing to taste. Every time we glory in the sweetness of life, here and now, we grab hold of the promise that our tears will be wiped away.

You know all too well the bitter tasting moments, the flavor of salty tears. Do not dwell there. Allow those things to run their course, then enjoy sweetness. There is sugar sprinkled within the hard flavors. Savor those--the precious memories of those you've lost, the laughter, the joy brought to your life.

The variety adds richness, adds depth to you. You are not less because of your losses. Rather, you are more, because of what each person and experience left with you.

Dearest B---, it's alright to cry. God is crying, too. He knows the hurt that losses, that death, that separation cause. He knows it intimately. 

Allow love to motivate you. It is the sweetness. Love, joy, peace, laughter, kindness, friendship--these are what make the sweet moments.

Grief is but a moment long. Sweetness is forever. Forever in the arms of Jesus. Forever waiting, with those you've lost, for you to finish the race and run into it.