As humans, too often are we faced with the loss of a loved one. In most cases, despite their age, that moment in time when we are informed of their death is still a shock. Tears flow, memories rush through our minds, and more tears flow. Eventually, we return to a sense of calm and our rational being takes over and you realize that they were what? 94, 97, or even older?

When you finally put it all in perspective, Wow, what a life to have lived that long. To start life when electricity was relatively new, see black & white television morph into color, watch a man walk on the moon, detach your phone from the wall and take it with you, and even carry something called a computer in your pocket. Even changes to all the little conveniences that have taken place during their life. Not having to put ice in the ice box, the milkman stopped his horse-drawn deliveries, and the move from a treadle to an electric sewing machine.

Such is the case for Suzanne. On the way to her biopsy the other day, she got that call; Pauline, a dear friend had passed away that evening. Thirty years her elder, Suzanne, and she developed a very close friendship around their mutual love of quilting. She met Pauline when she owned Prairieland Quilts and she would come in to buy fabric, tools, and supplies; actually, she was one of our best customers. The two of them could spend hours picking out fabrics and talking about the projects they were working on. Quilt shows, classes, and shop hops, the two of them were there. When Pauline would winter in Florida, we would stop in and visit as we traveled to see our son down there.

I also developed a special relationship with Pauline, it was kind of a ‘handyman’ relationship as she would always have a honey-do list of things for me to do for her while the two of them carried on with quilt talk. Tomorrow, I will perform my last handyman task for her; the honored position of Pallbearer.

But now, her friend is gone and during this tumultuous time in her life, it touches her deeply. Attending the funeral will be difficult for Suzanne, remembering all the times they spent together and knowing that one of her quilting confidants isn’t there to help her anymore.

And everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

John 11:26