Lisa

I have been putting off this post for many reasons, mostly because I don't even have words to describe the feelings inside of me. But before I avoided it completely, I reminded myself that this blog's primary purpose is for documenting life, and with life comes death. I know, that is quite a somber difference from the kitchen's face-lift. But as we are so humbly reminded, life is a gift not to be taken for granted, for it can quickly be taken away. Such is the case for my beautiful, sweet, amazing Aunt Lisa who passed away last Friday after a valiant fight with cancer. She was 46 years old.

This picture is of Lisa with her husband Jerry and 3 of her 4 children on my wedding day, taken by my Uncle Craig. (Megan, who is approximately my age, was on a mission for the church at the time). Looking at this picture reminds me how Lisa quietly worked behind the scenes on our wedding day to make sure everything was put together at the reception. She tied bows onto chairs and arranged table settings with a smile, serving with kindness as she always did. I have always said Lisa was one of the kindest people in the world. In the 25 years I have known her I never heard her raise her voice or talk negatively about anyone. She was truly Christ-like and always thought about everyone but herself.

She was diagnosed with Stage 4 Glioblastoma (a certain type of brain cancer) less than a year after this picture was taken. Merely 1 year and 3 months later she went home to our Heavenly Father. When we heard the news Friday night, my initial feelings were of frustration and anger. WHY HER?!? Why that family?!? After crying it out for a bit, I was overcome with the most calming feeling. I had the distinct feeling that Lisa was in the Lord's arms, literally being embraced by Him. She was home. She was free of pain. She was happy.

We will all miss Lisa so much, but her mission on earth was complete. I am grateful to have known her. Aunt Lisa's legacy of Christ-like service will always live on in my heart. I love you Lisa!