A Kiss on the Forehead; A Journey’s End

He ignited a fire within me while softening my heart. He cleared my mind of clutter so I could see life, nature, and God with greater appreciation. He made me wonder like a child, showed me that the magic is found outside of the circle, helped me to embrace life a little closer, and love a little deeper.

My beautiful friend, Matthew, passed away yesterday morning.

When Matt became sick earlier this year, each of my goodbyes would include a kiss on the forehead. Early yesterday morning, I kissed him on the forehead for the very last time.

As my heart aches selfishly for my personal loss of Matt, it also rejoices with him in that he’s completed this difficult earthly journey and is wrapped in the arms of Jesus.

My children suggested I write a blog. And truly it’s become my legacy to leave to them. But Matt has been my inspiration and muse. He’s helped me with focus and direction. He’s given me many topics to write about. Matt would gently critique, not to discourage, but to encourage. He knew how to handle me perfectly with all of my complexities and insecurities. Oh, and he was quick to tell me when a post was too long. I will miss that but I will be ever-so mindful to not be so wordy.

I try to take a picture of the sunset on the day a friend or family member passes. Last night, my daughter, Charlie, went with me to my Thinking Spot. The place where I’ve shared so many sunsets with Matt in the past.

The sunset last night wasn’t brilliant in color but it was so peaceful. It was perfect. And as we watched in silence Matt’s last sunset fade into the night, a lone mourning dove sang to us his song of hope and of love. The saddest, yet most beautiful song I’ve ever heard.

As the days go on, and if I can find my way back to writing, it is my hope to share much more about this man who is loved by so many. I’m sure I will be collecting inspiring stories of his selfless acts of love and his deep compassion for others at his Celebration of Life.

I miss you so much already, Matthew, but I embrace the time we had. You taught me many of life’s most honorable lessons. This one, though, is proving to be the most difficult for me. Letting go.

My thoughts and prayers go out to Matt’s wonderful family. It’s been a blessing to my life to get to know them over the past couple of weeks. They are loving, compassionate people.

I will close this post with Matt’s favorite scripture, John 3:16.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

…and with a kiss on the forehead and many shed tears, my sweet Matthew, I send you peacefully on your way.

I love you with all my heart. Thank you for everything.

♥️💔

Andi