Death Sucks

Death sucks!

Not only is death hard on everyone involved, it's a painful, and sometimes difficult issue to discuss with your children. It is so heartbreaking to watch your child sob uncontrollably about anything, but even harder for a time when you are grieving yourself.

Our family has gone through a plethora of deaths in the last two years. We have lost Ryan's dad, two of my cousins, my aunt, my granny and now my grandfather. My children have experienced death at such a young age, that it is heartbreaking to tell them another person they love has died.

Now, I'm not saying that I regret my children growing up with so many people to love, and be loved in return. No, I'm thankful for how blessed my children have been. They have been blessed to not only know both sets of grandparents, but they have known four of their great grandparents. And not just know who they are, but actually KNOW them and have a relationship with them.t

Although I originally thought it was rare for children to know their great grandparents, I found out the percentage is actually higher. In an article in 2006, in the New York Times, "Here Come the great-grandparents", writer By STEPHANIE ROSENBLOOM reports that by 2030 about 70% of 8 year olds will be living with their great grandparents. WOW!! That number astounds me. However, I also know that knowing your GREAT grandparents, and knowing them well, is unique, and special in many ways. My children have been blessed in this aspect.

Sadly, experiencing so much death has made my children sensitive to death. However, with the knowledge and testimony of eternal families we KNOW we will see our loved ones again. The peace we receive with this great faith helps lessen the pain of losing our loved ones. As each of our faith grows we come to a more secure knowledge and comfort of love that we will be reunited with our loved ones.

So, today as many of my friends decide who to cheer for in the annual "Holy War" between BYU and Utah, my family will be celebrating my grandpa's life.

A man who loved all completely and unconditionally. A man who not only fiercely loved his country, but fought to keep it free. A man who loved his family fiercely. A man whose testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was so strong that many drew from his testimony in times of question. A man who without fail made you feel as though you were the most special and important person in his life. A man who loved his wife so strongly that no one could question his love for her. A man who enjoyed and loved his 10 children, 27 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren with such loyalty and love it couldn't be questioned. A man I am proud to call my grandpa.

So as my friends cheer for their favorite team (of which I could care less) I will be doing something not as fun, but much more meaningful. I will be celebrating Grandpa's life.

I LOVE you Grandpa Edwards. I'm so grateful for all you taught me and for the love you showed to my family. I know you are in a better place and not in pain anymore. You have been reunited with many of your ancestors, and with Grandma and Grandpa Bohman. I will always remember your love and your amazing testimony.

Please watch over our family. Until we meet again may the Lord watch over all your descendants. We all love you.