After most storms, there is usually a time of straightening and cleaning.  Clyde would always go out and get the pinecones, moss, and debris out of our yard.  He was diligent about having a neat lawn.  Some “storms” are emotional and leave a different kind of debris!  The emotional storms can wreak havoc and even destroy relationships if we don’t gain control quickly. 

When Clyde died, I experienced the worst storm of my life.  I was devastated when my daddy and my mother passed. I felt deep sorrow when my first child was stillborn.   When my nephew and brother died, I had a difficult time dealing with their deaths.     I have lost many friends and loved ones, but nothing had bombarded me like this. The emotions that engulfed me after Clyde’s death were indescribable!  I knew God had everything in control, and I trusted Him.  However, I didn’t know how I would survive without my soulmate, the love of my life, my best friend. The idea of facing the future without him was heartbreaking!  

Clyde had underlined Matthew 6:19-21 in his Bible. Verse 21 took on a new meaning for me:  For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. I know without a doubt Clyde is in Heaven, and someday I will join him. In the meantime, I must be about my Father’s Business. 

Christian family members and friends were and still are a lifeline that I grabbed hold of and held on for dear life.  The straightening and cleaning after this “storm” will never end, but knowing I don’t have to face it alone is a relief. God has my back!