RISE UP | 2024 A Journey of Loss, Love, Strength and Resilience

Reflecting on this past year, I find myself navigating a tumultuous sea of emotions, each wave bringing its own challenges and lessons. Losing three beloved family members in such a short span has been a profound reminder of life's fragility. Each loss has carved its own space in my heart, leaving behind cherished memories and a deep sense of gratitude for the time we shared.

Amidst this grief, my wife faced her own battle—a major surgery and a diagnosis of an incurable rare autoimmune liver disease. Watching her confront the loss of her mother and brother and other health challenges with courage and grace has been both humbling and inspiring. Her strength has become a beacon of hope in our darkest moments, reminding us that even in the face of loss and adversity, resilience, faith, hope and love can light the way forward. I cant help but think of the song by the talented Andra Day, "Rise Up". She is, as Alicia Keys sings about, "Superwoman" with God's help.

“Sometimes life’s most profound lessons are often written in the language of pain, but we can learn to translate grief into grace, turning wounds into applied wisdom.”

Throughout this year, I have discovered an unexpected wellspring of support from places I never anticipated. Friends, relatives, co-workers and even acquaintances have reached out with intention, kindness and compassion, offering their shoulders to lean on and their hearts to share in our burdens. This outpouring of love has reinforced my belief in the inherent goodness of people and the power of community.

These experiences have taught me invaluable lessons about appreciation and resilience. I've learned to cherish every moment with loved ones, to express gratitude openly, and to find strength in vulnerability. Life's unpredictability has shown me that while we cannot control everything that happens to us, we can choose how we respond.

In reflecting on these months, I am filled with gratitude for the support that has surrounded us and for the resilience we have discovered within ourselves. It is this resilience that propels us forward, guiding us through grief towards healing and hope. As we continue on this journey, I am reminded that even in the face of great loss and challenge, there is always room for growth, love, and renewed purpose.

“The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong at the broken places.” -Ernest Hemingway

May this reflection serve as a reminder that no matter how difficult the path may seem, there is always light to be found—and often from sources we least expect. Let us embrace each day with gratitude and courage, knowing that together, we can overcome anything life throws our way.