Joy and suffering

Today was a day of great accomplishment! I ran 3.1 miles, just for fun. Boy did that feel good! It's nice to run for fun for the first time, and not because I have to. I may keep up with this after all! Even thinking about kicking off the new year with a 5k.

Even in all of the goodness, my day has been filled with sadness. My parents lost a great neighbor this week. He's young, the father of 2 kids, one in 5th grade and one in 7th. He fell off the roof when he was checking the flu on his fireplace. The more I learn, the more it just breaks my heart. My parents have been through so much this year, I just can't believe it. They have lost numerous friends and family members. When does it stop? My mom reminded me of the story of Job, and how she feels like Job this year. It just breaks my heart.

Today is also December 7, the day of Pearl Harbor. This day reminds me of my friend, Warren Jones, who passed away last year. He was a Pearl Harbor survivor, and came and spoke to our Sunday school class a few times. He was one of the greatest supporters of our youth ministry. A man who changed my life. He is greatly missed. I'm also missing my grandpa today, as he is a WWII vet.

Really, it's just been a tough day. Goodness has shown itself in my students, team members, and the joy of my accomplishments, but I really miss my grandparents and loved ones. And, I just can't even imagine what this family (our neighbors) are going through right now. Please cover them in your prayers.

Thanks.