Losing a loved one is never easy. Having to say goodbye when you aren't ready, is probably the worse feeling in the world. I have been through an unfair amount of saying goodbye to people I never thought I would have to say goodbye to at such a young age. Stephenville and Tarleton State University have lost so many students in the last few years, that it has made us stronger knowing that we are a family. Although losing someone is hard, it does make you realize that life is so precious and should never be taken for granted.

I remember when I lost my uncle in high school, I was so angry that I didn't even want to know God or have anything to do with Him. I didn't understand why someone who was so loving, funny, and was about to graduate from college for the first time, get taken away so fast. It took me a very long time before I even wanted to talk to God. I had so many questions that I knew I would never get the answers. People would send their condolences and prayers, I was thankful, but I was still angry. It took time for me to finally come to the conclusion that my uncle's time on earth being a disciple was finished. We don't necessarily ask for the life we have, but God has blessed us with the life that we have. You get the choice on how you want to live it. I truly believe that when someone has died young they have fulfilled the purpose that God had bestowed on them. He knew they have completed their portion of His plan to further His kingdom and were called home.

As hard as that is to hear, it makes things a little easier knowing that it was God's plan, not theirs. I can understand that many people are angry at God for what has happened, but this gives you a chance find refuge in Him. Although you are hurting and wanting to wake up from this terrible dream, seek Christ. Find people who are going to be encouraging and listen to the stories of the loved one you lost as you cry it out. There is nothing wrong with crying and letting it all out because you need to let loose of what is inside. Allow yourself to grieve and be with loved ones but there will come a point in your life that you will have to move on. Your loved ones who were lost suddenly do not want you to stop living your life, they will want you to live as if they were there. You have a purpose and something worth living for, so don't stop because they aren't physically here. They will remain in your thoughts, heart and memories so they never left.

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

Life is precious and can be taken away just as fast. Take these trials and make it into celebrations of life. We will never forget Brayden Coverdale, Alex Sanchez, Leslie Billings and so many others. The impact they have made on our community by their caring personalities, friendship and love became unforgettable. I encourage everyone who reads this to pray for the families of these individuals. They are currently living the life that we long for and flying high in heaven. We continue to gain guardian angels and God picked the perfect ones.

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. Lamentations 3:22-25