“Life has many ways of testing a person’s will, either by having nothing happen at all or by having everything happen all at once.”

― Paulo Coelho

This quote ran through my mind countless times over the last couple of weeks. Life does indeed have a way of becoming cumbersome and sometimes boring and then throws life-changing events at you, all seemingly at one time.

My beloved mother’s life on Earth came to a close this past week. She had battled dementia and it had taken its toll on her ability to function normally. A short stay at the hospital, followed by the family trying to take care of her at home, and then the realization that we were no longer able to care for her ourselves and placing her in hospice care. She stayed at hospice house for exactly one week before she was called to her heavenly home.

During this time, I also had to make the difficult decision to euthanize my beloved dog, Abby. She had been diagnosed with terminal cancer and had gotten to the point that she was suffering each day. The phrase “dogs are man’s best friend” certainly rang true for me as I laid beside her as she took her last breaths. Abby had been a part of my life for the past twelve years and she was a constant companion and friend and I miss her greatly.

In between these two events, one of the happiest times in my life, marrying the love of my life, Lisa. She and I were joined on a warm Sunday afternoon and celebrated the beginning of our lives together. It was so very nice to have members of both of our families join us to celebrate the joy of starting our lives together as a married couple. Although my mom wasn’t able to attend the ceremony, she had been adamant that she would be at the wedding and we realize she was there with us in spirit.

This two week period of time also included the end of yet another school year. Even though I was only able to work two of the last five days, I was pleased to be able to attend the graduation ceremonies and say good-bye to the students I had worked with over the past five months. They’ll continue their journeys in middle school next year and who knows, maybe I’ll be seeing them again.

So many life changes in such a short period of time. And all the while, the realization that God was watching over all during these times of transition. While I don’t completely understand all the changes that have occurred, I do know that with God’s help, I will be able to keep the faith and trust the journey.

David Lee