Recently I received two messages on the same day that two friends had passed away. One, I only knew through Facebook... we shared many messages and thoughts for several years. He began to follow me when I was appointed to the streets. Quite regularly he reminded me he was an atheist. And quite regularly he supported my Christian calling. He was a friend, a gifted poet, a naturalist and a man who advocated for peace and justice. He was also a type of wanderer. When I first met him he was in the Scandinavian area. And I was on my way to visit him, but in a different location. I was on my way to make a hospital visitation in the Netherlands. He had cancer. I did not make it on time to meet my friend personally... My friend, one of his last messages to me: Dear Lorenza!! I have fallen gravely ill. Some doctors doubt my chances to survive. I try not to! Life is very difficult. Hope to be able to see you come November December. You know I am an unbeliever, but maybe you can say a prayer for me? November December I responded: Maybe a prayer, maybe just sitting with you... whatever feels good at the time. And I have no doubt youre a believer... in many things. And I believe youre a very good man. Meanwhile take care my friend... ---------------- The other dear friend I recently lost I knew for many years and his parents knew my parents. He described himself as a Red Letter Christian. It was an unexpected death. And his wife asked if I would officiate his funeral. What a privilege to celebrate his life with friends and family in Dallas, Texas. My friend was an alumni from Perkins School of Theology. He often challenged me and he often guided me. The last time I saw him was in Dallas, Texas. We were at his apartment as we spoke of theological implications of allowing the poor and homeless within our societies. I extended my stay until Nov. 18th to be a part of my friends celebration of life here in the US. I also changed my destination and will return to Norway rather than Poland. I will be taking my friends ashes to the Viking lands... he so often spoke of wanting a Viking funeral. (Though I will not be setting anything on fire!) Tom and Mark you will be missed! You blessed me in your living and in your dying... and you continue to bless me! Thank you my friends : )
Posted on: Wed, 12 Nov 2014 22:21:25 +0000
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