14 Comments
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David Grunwell's avatar

Ed was a father figure to me. He was kind and a good man, and I will ever be grateful for his light in my life. When he passed, I had just started a new job, and I was unable to get time off. That job did not last long, but the sadness at missing the funeral and honoring him has. I think of him and Mrs. Elsner often. As I write this, I have tears at the gift they were and are to those who knew them. Thank you, Glenn, for sharing your heart.

Glenn Sunshine's avatar

"I will not say: do not weep; for not all tears are an evil." -- Gandalf, "The Grey Havens"

Marti B's avatar

Great story Glen. Having been through losing my dad and mother in law and Christmas being my dad’s favorite holiday, it’s never easy. I now help do Griefshare also so I really found this really comforting and interesting with the background of the hymn. Thank you for sharing your heart and wisdom with us. God bless you! Merry Christmas to you & the family!

Glenn Sunshine's avatar

Thank you, Marti. Merry Christmas to you and yours!

J Neil Daniels's avatar

Different losses, obviously, but I love the Advent hymn, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel," for every similar reasons. This was beautifully written, Dr. Sunshine.

Glenn Sunshine's avatar

Thank you. It wasn't easy to write it.

J Neil Daniels's avatar

I can imagine, though that made it all the more pertinent. It resonates deeply.

Lance Cashion's avatar

Thanks for taking the time to write this. I appreciate you sharing this story the other evening on our zoom meeting.

Death is swallowed up in victory.

Natus ex Victoria

Jodi Larson's avatar

Thank you for this encouraging post. My mother died earlier this year in July and my grandma died last November. It’s been a hard year, but the Lord was good all the way through. I can only praise Him for showing His kindness and mercy to me through both of them. May you be blessed even and especially in this season.

Glenn Sunshine's avatar

Thank you, Jodi. I'm sorry to hear about your mother and grandmother. May you know Christ's peace as you go through this season.

Glenn Sunshine's avatar

From Adobe stock images

Brennan Wierzba's avatar

Great news!

Brennan Wierzba's avatar

It has that uncanny look to it though