We celebrated Aunt Lois and Uncle Jerry’s first birthdays in heaven this past week. They were born four days apart and had been married 66 years. There marriage is a testimony to us all that with hard work, patience, unselfishness, and God in your marriage, you can share a lifetime together.

As I thought about Aunt Lois on her earthly birth date, I had warm feelings of love stemming from beautiful memories. I was missing her, and there was an empty place in my heart, but I wasn’t overwhelmed by sadness.

But when Uncle Jerry’s birthday came four days later, I was overwhelmed with emotion. Tears welled up. My chest tightened. I wanted to cry a deep cleansing cry. Why? I had no idea! Where were the warm feelings of love stemming from beautiful memories? I have those memories of Uncle Jerry. Those times he made me feel like I could accomplish anything. Or when he made special food because he knew I liked it. Or painted a country church on a rock for me, way before rock painting became popular. He had me try chewing tobacco just like my boy cousins. Okay, that one isn’t warm and fuzzy, but it makes me laugh.

At his funeral, I couldn’t stop crying. Uncle Jerry was strong, invincible, in my mind. Strong people like Uncle Jerry seemingly should live forever. The night before he died, my mom called to say he wasn’t doing well. It was late. I was tired. I didn’t want to bother him if he was resting. I felt a tugging in my spirit to go, but I decided I would go right after work the next day. He passed away the next morning, just before the school day started. I couldn’t believe it; I had missed the chance to say goodbye! That day, I didn’t just have an empty place in my heart, my heart was broken. My strong Uncle Jerry was gone.

If I am going to have peace about Uncle Jerry leaving, I need to remember that he is happy in heaven. He is safe and forever with Aunt Lois. He has seen the face of Jesus! I can’t go back for a final goodbye, but I have many wonderful memories for my future. He wouldn’t want me to cry. He would want me to rejoice in the saving grace of Jesus. Rejoice that, one day, I will be there, too.

So, happy birthday, Uncle Jerry! I love you, and I will see you again, one day. Get ready for an enormous hug! Oh, and we will be able to hear each other, loud and clear!