It's Been a Bad Day

Today was an extremely difficult day.  On my way to join my "teammates" on The Breakfast Club, I was told of the passing of the ring leader of that exclusive club, Mark Justice.  His passing was sudden and unexpected.  It has been a bad day.

After most difficult days, I find myself in the solitude of my paint studio.  Today was such a day.  As I stood gazing at the blank canvas, I felt a peace and comfort come over me.  At that moment these thoughts came to me.  I would shared them with my amazing radio family and it was suggested I blog them for you his fans.

I am convinced that there is a place deep in the recesses of our hearts, a place where only you and God have a key.  Deep in that cavern of the heart, is where we lock away memories; the good memories of our lives.  I firmly believe God designed us in such a way that when we feel like we cannot go on, our memories can help sustain us.  Of course, God’s grace, love and mercy is also at our disposal, but perhaps part of His prescription for overcoming grief is the use of those memories.

 

I am not sure how any of us can have a memory of Mark Justice without at least smiling, if not all out laughter.  As I began putting paint to canvas, I found myself thinking of jokes, laughs, bits and just Marks smile in general and I was laughing.  Yes, we are all going to miss Mark a great deal.  Yes, there will be days of pain and sorrow.  On those days, I encourage you to get your key and unlock the memory cave.  Let those wonderful memories of Mark Justice flow through your heart, to your smile.

 

I have always been a person who disregarded “what if” and embraced “what was” in times of loss. The “what ifs” will drive you crazy.  Thinking about what life today would be if Mark were still with us.  It is a futile exercise that brings about sadness.  But “what was” fills our minds with great memories that leads to smiles and maybe even a chuckle.

On a hillside in Ireland, there is a wonderful quote on a tombstone:

“Death leaves a heartache no man can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.”

Death is not something we ever get over.  But memories are what helps us get through the difficult times.  God bless you all.  With much love.  RIP my dear friend.  You will be greatly missed, but you will also fill my heart with the wonderful memories of shared laughter!

Tim