If we live long enough, we know it will happen. There will come a day when the two people who gave us life will become a memory. We usually don’t give that much thought when we are young, but all too soon we realize how fleeting time is. My Mom and Dad were blessed with long lives, but as I reflect back over the years, it wasn’t long enough.

Seventy-six years ago, my parents promised to love each other until they died, and they did. I knew the day would come, but there are days when life doesn’t feel the same without them. In some of my quiet moments, the world feels emptier than it did before. I have recordings of both of you, so I can still hear your voices, but the absence of your physical presence has left a void that cannot be filled. Even as a grown man, just being near you made me feel safe.

Summer is filled with many eventful days. Birthdays, Youth Camp, Camp Meeting, and just walking around the campground fill my heart with precious memories. Your love, devotion, and encouragement still strengthen me today, and I believe there are times when God allows you to look over the balconies of heaven, still watching, still loving, still urging me to keep going. Every day brings me closer to being with you again, and what a joyful reunion that will be.