Aloha!

Hau`oli Lâ Ho`omaika`i!
(Happy Thanksgiving...from Hawaii!!)

...Mourn with those who mourn...

I've watched for the past few days, the news that came to my inbox. I was first saddened by the news that a young man was hurt. Then shocked as I scrolled down and saw that he passed.

And I cannot help but cry.

It almost seems silly for me to be here writing this. I mean, I barely spoke to either one of the young couple. But I did go--randomly--to their beautiful wedding shower. And I saw the bliss, the joy, the hope.

I cannot begin to imagine what it is like to experience this loss, but I also cannot help but cry and grieve at the thought of a young wife suddenly left without her husband. Even I have questions; I cannot imagine hers.

Sometimes there are not answers, and we are left with a reminder that this life is temporary. At least I am. This isn't it. What really matters here?

And we're also left with a reminder of the greatness of the bond created by being one of many who are dedicated to loving God. The church. His people. We are indeed one big family. Rejoicing and mourning together. Even when we're not all best friends. Even when hundreds or thousands of miles separate us. Even from here in Rockford, Illinois.

So, I will keep you close in heart and pray for the love and comfort and hope of our savior to flood your world.

"Tears are falling, hearts are breaking
How we need to hear from God
You've been promised, we've been waiting

Welcome Holy Child...

Bring Your peace into our violence
Bid our hungry souls be filled
Word now breaking Heaven's silence

Welcome to our world..."

Ending times.

Well, my tour is just about ended. I'll have a couple months (or less) off, then it will be back on the road again.

Yay. I do love traveling. Especially when I'm getting paid for it.

So, it's ideal, right?

And yet I want more...