Live Life

More than once I have reflected on life following a funeral, and posted the thoughts on this blog site. I have also written a piece about running in cemeteries. Recently, we attended the funeral of Jane Sailers, a woman I knew, and who was a dear friend of Shannan's. We agreed the service was one of the most beautiful and moving celebrations of life we have ever experienced. We carried the joy of life as we exited Emory University's Cannon Chapel to a magnificent spring day.

Life is an amazing thing that we often struggle to put into words. We all have things that bring joy and meaning to life. As you know, exercise is one of those things for me. I found myself working out a bit harder this afternoon. Many conscious and subconscious things played a role in that, I'm sure.

I thought back on Jane’s funeral. Many of the University's elite, past and present, attended. During the first year of The Streak I was a graduate student and spent numerous hours in the very same Cannon Chapel. I mused on all the people sitting around me who had a hand in changing the course of my life. Steve Kraftchik, an administrator from Candler School of Theology sat in front of me. He was on the committee that awarded me a scholarship. Max Miller was there as well. He was the man who first took me out of the United States, and taught me how to do research via travel. Wayne Lord and Bishop Bevel Jones sat behind me. These two men gave me all the pragmatic information and guidance a father passes to his son.

It was good to be back at Emory, especially in Cannon Chapel. I found it moving to listen to reflections about Jane's life, and most of all, delightful to be in a community of respect and love. Those who spoke made it clear Jane lived life in a full and complete manner. I want so much from life. I'm sure the same holds true for you. We all know there is a finite end. Let's not let our time slip away.

Live deeply.

Tom