Since we are all Team Ryan blog stalkers, friends and strangers alike, I am sure you all know that we lost Ryan yesterday. There is so much in my heart, yet I have nothing profound to say. We will miss Ryan. Please pray for his family.
I am sad, because there are so many people who love Ryan and he will be missed for a lifetime, but I am rejoicing in all the joy and strengthened faith that Ryan left in his wake. I don't think this story is done touching the lives of others, not even close. Team Ryan lives on.
And as I am thinking about Ryan and Margie, I am reminded that today is the one year anniversary of the death of our friend, Michelle, who also courageously battled cancer. Justin and his kids have stayed faithful and strong, and been richly blessed by a loving Father in Heaven this past year. I have no doubt that Margie will be surrounded and uplifted at this time as well.
But still, my heart aches for these two families today. Whether it was yesterday, or last year, it is so hard to say goodbye.
Today's soundtrack: When we found out Michelle was dying, Alan Jackson had just released Sissy's Song and I had to turn it everytime it came on the car radio to avoid wrecking. And more recently, while Ryan has been sick Toby Keith's song, Cryin for Me has been popular, and again, I can not listen to it while driving. Although these wouldn't be the exact words I would write for my friends if I were a songwriter, these songs will always remind me of Michelle and of Ryan. Also, Find Out Who your Friends Are by Tracy Lawrence. Seth keeps his feelings a little more private than I do (doesn't everybody), but he included this song in a letter that he wrote to Ryan a few weeks ago and I thought it epitomized the kinds of friends that Ryan and Margie have been to us. And of course, God Be With You Til We Meet Again, because there will be an again.
Until then...
6 comments:
I'm so sorry to read this. I am so glad their family had that time together.
I'm so sorry for their family. I have seen their blog and they are an amazing example of faith and strength. I am so impressed with the positive outlook that they maintain. They are so happy with the blessings they received, eventhough the blessing they really wanted wasn't granted. what a difficult trial to endure and they endured it well. It makes me think of the scripture "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." What amazing people.
Sometimes you just can't put it into words, at least I can't. You seem to do so very well. My heart goes out to all of you, and thank you, Julie, for introducing me to this incredible family.
From all the I've heard since I've known you, I know that Ryan and Margie mean so much to you guys. It's such a sad loss, but Ryan is in a good place and will soon meet up with his family and friends again one day.
I've been sitting in front of a blank comment screen, wondering what to write. There's nothing to say, except thank you for sharing the story of the Hess family. They continue to be an inspiration for my family and a reminder to focus on what really matters most. I'm in awe of Margie's courage and testimony in the face of painful adversity. It's clear from where she draws her strength.
Oh, Julie I'm so sorry.
I agree with all that Erin wrote.
I, too, found myself staring at the screen wondering what to write.
God Be With You Til We Meet Again is such a beautiful sad song. It's a hard song to sing, but I thought you said it perfectly, there will be an again.
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