Certainties

Ironically, even the origin of the quote, "The only two certainties in life are death and taxes", often attributed to Mark Twain, is uncertain. Some say it comes from Benjamin Franklin while others disagree, claiming different sources still. Nonetheless, the saying pretty much holds true.

We woke up to uncertain weather this morning. We've had spring-like temperatures recently, but this morning it was snowing and cold once again. 

The otherwise quiet morning was broken with news of one of life's certainties when we got the call telling us that Uncle Donald had passed away. He left this mortal life only days short of his 88th birthday, pretty much as he had lived it. Peacefully, without complaint at the hand he was dealt and mostly alone. 

He was a sweet man who adored the family he had. He never married, never had children, but visibly loved his siblings and their children and grandchildren. He served our country courageously and fought in the Battle of the Bulge in WWII. He'd had hard times and was no stranger to loneliness, but he always had a smile and we never heard him complain (except perhaps about the gravy at the nursing home in which he lived).

He didn't have much in the way of worldly things. His most prized possessions were the many photos of extended family that adorned the door and walls of his small room.

The words of the hymn, Come Ye Disconsolate (author: Thomas Moore, 1779-1852), seem appropriate.

Come, ye disconsolate, where’er ye languish;
Come to the mercy seat, fervently kneel.
Here bring your wounded hearts; here tell your anguish.
Earth has no sorrow that heav’n cannot heal.

Joy of the desolate, Light of the straying,
Hope of the penitent, fadeless and pure!
Here speaks the Comforter, tenderly saying,
“Earth has no sorrow that heav’n cannot cure.”

Here see the Bread of Life; see waters flowing
Forth from the throne of God, pure from above.
Come to the feast of love; come, ever knowing

Earth has no sorrow but heav’n can remove.

We love you, Uncle Donald, and we'll miss your sweet smile at our family gatherings.

Uncle Donald

March 28, 1924 - March 18, 2012