It’s All Saint’s Day, and I’m remembering five very special people: mother, father, Uncle Tommy, Charlie, and Michael. They now rest from their labors; all confessed their faith in the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. God was their rock, fortress, and might, and He stood beside them in their well-fought battles. He was their light as their sunsets approached; they shine in His glory now. They were strong in their fights to the death, but their ears heard the triumphant trumpet call. They have risen to the bright array of heaven, and they sing, “Alleluia, to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.”
All set high standards for me while they lived; even in the absence of their physical presence, I am still reaching for those requests. My mother taught me to always have faith, hope, and love in everything I do and say. My father taught me to forgive, even when it hurts to do so. Uncle Tommy encouraged me in my music and wanted me to surpass my potential. Charlie pushed me to learn about computers and their use in our ever-changing world. Michael taught me to stand up for myself and to be the “change” the world needs with every passing day.
Perhaps the greatest lesson they all taught me was “to do to others what I would want done to me.” I willingly love my enemies; I try to do good to those who hate me. I forgive those who curse me; I pray for those who abuse me. If someone strikes me on the cheek, I offer them my other cheek. If someone takes my coat, I offer them my shirt as well. I give to everyone who begs me; I do not ask for my goods back if they are stolen from me.
I try to be the Christian woman they all wanted me to be. It’s not been easy, but my Father has always walked beside me on the earth. He has captained my little boat across rough waters to the other side and carried me up and over high mountains. I place my life in His hands, and I pray, someday, that I will hear the clarion trumpet call to come home. When my sunset is in the near distance, I know the light in my heart will become the light of my eternal home. I will walk with my loved loves, and we will all be at peace. Together, we will sing, “Alleluia, to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.”
Anna Hartt
