Thanksgiving Thursday: family & friends

It was the middle of the night and as he slept soundly next to his beloved wife, he moaned softly. There was no struggle, no pain, no big adieu, but just like that he was gone. Mike Warren passed away in his sleep Monday, November 19th. Mike had such a love for the Lord, a love for people and a love for life. He was a truly beautiful man and I think all who crossed his path, particularly those who knew him well would agree with me. I will miss Mike- we all will. He had such a kindness about him that was rare in this life and he always made you feel part of the crowd, like you were someone special, at least to him and especially to God. Mike was my parents' best friend, he and his wife, Suzan. The four of them met at church and spent plenty of time together in God's house plus went on trips together, met regularly to eat out and enjoyed each other's families. I remember sharing a trip to Asheville, NC with Suzan & Mike to celebrate my parents' 37th wedding anniversary where they had a special ceremony to renew their vows. We saw them almost every time we visited my parents, they came to Maggie's 1st birthday party and my surprise 30th. They were part of our family- we'll stay close with Suzan, but will all feel Mike's absence. I still can't believe he's gone. Mike really displayed Christ's character and above all loved and loved everyone. This song reminds me of him:

Mike absolutely lived his life as proof of Christ's love. I only hope I can love the way he loved and leave the legacy he did.  Today I'm thankful to have known this wonderful man and thankful to have both my parents with me, thankful for my siblings, grandparents, nieces and nephews- for both the family I was born into and the one I inherited when marrying Daniel, I am truly blessed. Are you thankful for your family today? I pray you are.