I haven't journaled in awhile.  I wasn't in the mood.

I have been reading a book by Murray Bodo, OFM entitled Francis, The Journey and The Dream.  It is written so beautifully and simply that it has keep me interested.  I am not an avid reader like the rest of my family.  It takes me awhile to read a book.  If it isn't interesting, I will quit reading it.  Sometimes I might go back to it, but not very often.  This book is irresistible.  I can't put it down.  I can't wait to be a professed in the SFO.

Today, started out quiet and peaceful.  Tom was working on his Art and I continued to read my book.  At 11:30 the phone rang.  It was my former music director and close friend.  I used to sing in the Diocesan Chorale for ten years.  I had many directors in that time, but Michael was the first director to tell me that I was a good singer.  He had faith in my ability.  He started having me sing solos for big events in the Diocese.  He even chose me to be one of sixteen singers to sing for a prayer service when Mother Teresa of Calcutta came to Phoenix.  I am very grateful that he gifted me with such a wonderful experience.  Today, though, Michael called to tell us that one Tom's and my dearest friends, who we had known for some twenty years had passed away.  Tom and I are devastated.  Richard and his wife Betty were married for over fifty years and were our role models for perfect faith filled union.  Michael invited me to sing for Richard's funeral on Friday, October 15th. 

Excuse me, the phone is ringing.  Betty just called to tell us about Richard's death.  She wasn't sure if Michael had told us and she didn't want us to read about it in the obituaries.  I didn't know what to say to her.  She told me that Richard died peacefully without any pain.  She said that that was a miracle in it self.  The doctor said that it was unheard of not to have pain.  Thank you God for sparing him pain and suffering.  She told me that he died on October 7th.  I told her that he died on the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary.  She seemed very comforted by me telling her that.  I also told her that I would be singing at the funeral.  She said that she was very happy to hear that.  She said that she had hoped that I could do that.  We didn't stay on the phone to long because her other phone was ringing and she seemed totally exhausted.  I told her that I would see her on Thursday at the Mortuary.

I think right now I am still in shock.  It is hard for me to believe that he is gone.  Richard was so full of energy and joy.  He always had a smile and a hug for us.  He and Betty would take us out to breakfast anytime we were at his Church on a Sunday for Mass.  We always had a terrific time when we were together.  I am comforted to think that Jesus and His Blessed Mother have their arms around Richard right now.

Richard, I love you and I miss you.  May you rest in Peace and Joy!

Until we meet again...........