Thursday, September 18, 2008

Saying Goodbye

I always try to keep this blog happy & upbeat - though today is a different story. Our friend, Tamra, passed away yesterday from lymphona. It's a sad, sad story. Naseem was especially close to Tamra & practically lived at the Sorensen household. Naseem is having a very hard time today. We got the call around 8:30 this morning & Nas went to school on that unhappy note.

The good part of this story: Tamra is no longer in a diseased body & is rejoicing in Heaven. Her story inspired many to sign up to become bone marrow donors (myself included) & she educated us all about the scary word cancer.

I wish I had read this link before Naseem & I went over to visit Steve (Tamra's husband) & Karen (her sister-in-law). You know that old saying, "open mouth, insert foot" - well that is exactly what I did. I stupidly asked him, "how are you?" Dummy! Thank God Steve was gracious and let it pass. I immediately regretted my choice of words. I just couldn't believe that is what came out of my mouth. And it did - right after I told Naseem - just pray that you won't say the wrong thing. Guess who forgot to pray. Oh well - I meant well and I think he knew it.

The family is holding up amazingly well and wanted us to come over. They invited us to come over tomorrow as well. They are definitely strong in their faith and it is showing.

Nas chose a beautiful verse to put in the card we got for the family (it brings tears to my eyes every time I read it).

Here it is:

They will walk and won't grow tired.
Don't be afraid, because I am with you.
Don't be intimidated; I am your God.
I will strengthen you.
I will help you.
I will support you with my victorious right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

5 comments:

Arezou said...

I am sorry Erin Joon for this loss. She looks like such a nice person, I am sure she is in peace and comfort now. It makes me treasure every moment that I have with my family and friends. Thanks for sharing your feelings and please stay strong. If there is anything I can do, please ask.

The Rinkels said...

I'm so sorry to hear about the passing of your dear friend. Cancer is a terrible beast that one day we will beat. I saw this on a card once and thought it was really cool.
"Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy." ~ An Eskimo Saying

Unknown said...

Erin joon and Naseem joonm
I am so sorry for this loss. May she is in peace and joy in Heaven. This is the sad story of life, but we have to be strong and beleive that this is not the end, but the beginning of another world full of love,light and peace.

erinz said...

Thanks so much for the comments! Heidi - I LOVE that quote. I am writing it down.

Laurel said...

I was sorry to hear of the loss. I feel sad for those kids, but I know they are surrounded by family and friends.