Thank you

The church bulletin mentioned today as All Saints’ Sunday and listed some of the church “saints” affiliated with my church who have passed.

These thoughts led me to revisit my mom’s passing and all the kindness people showed me during this tough time. I also remembered that I hadn’t thanked the church for the kindness it showed during the time of my mother’s loss. During today's church service, when I should have paid more attention, I jotted down a few words to say during the time for announcements.

Here’s what I said:

Thank you Trinity.
My mother died in July while at my granny’s house.
Losing my mother felt like the hardest challenge to ever confront me in life. Sorrow, pain, and emptiness filled me. However, through friends and family, including my church family here at Trinity, I endure this loss while also balancing love, friendship, compassion, empathy, kindness, and so many other qualities from people who care.
The casserole the Sparrows delivered to my house fed me for a few meals, but the love it represented continues to nourish. Phone calls from Buren allowed him to listen to my voice tremble as my tears affected my speech. That conversation ended, but I know you still care. Thanks you Alison, who told me you love me and cared when I saw you at the Community Market.
Along with my mother’s death, other scars in my life also weighed on me. I hadn’t felt loved in many parts of my life for a while. Friends and family, including my Trinity family, helped me find perspective.
I spent time reflecting on my shortcomings and areas where I can shine and gave thanks for this wonderful life we all share together. Losing my mother in this world has helped me appreciate all the blessings God showers on us.
Thank you.