Thursday, September 6, 2012

Thankful Thursday

Linking with Cami at Thankful Thursday 


“Life is a lot more fragile than we think so we should treat others in a way that leaves no regrets...fairly, and if possible, sincerely.” Haruki Murakami

My friend died this week. He had lung cancer. He never even smoked. He was a guy who didn't talk much, but when he did....you listened. The most defining thing about him - He loved God. 

His death is a reminder that life is unpredictable and fragile. My friend lived with a sense of purpose and destiny. He made a difference....an impact on others. It makes me look at myself and what I'm doing with this gift of life I've been given. I'm too much of a fighter.....too intense for my own good. I talk too much....other times, not enough. I want to use my life to touch others....but sometimes I think I'm way too self-centred.  Still....I'm grateful for a lot, things like....

Grace - it gives me inner strength when I feel hopelessly weak
Grace- it pumps me with courage when everything in me is thinking I can't.....
Grace....it helps me forgive when someone hurts me...
Grace...it fills me with incredible peace so 'no worries' becomes a resounding motto.
Grace....the love that broke through and turned my life around. 

14 comments:

Sandi@ Rose Chintz Cottage said...

Nikki, I am so sorry for your loss. It is such a comfort to know he knew the Lord.

We had a death in my hubby's family too and my son flew home from BC for the funeral. It has been a very sad week for us.

Life is precious and a gift. I wish more people would recognize that and not waste what they have been given.
Enjoy your day, my friend. Praying for you.

Blessings,
Sandi

Tea said...

So sorry about your friend's death. I think your post is very inspiring and proves you are doing something with your life.

RCUBEs said...

Praying God's comfort and strength over you and your friend's family sister! I love the quote you shared...the one word that sticks out: "sincerely"...It's easy to do great things for others but without love and sincerity they don't mean a thing. The way you spoke so much love and great things about your friend, it shows...he lived his life loving others. "sincerely"...because he knew the Savior Who loved us all first...without condition. Blessings to you my sister up north! :)

Amrita said...

God' s gracve keeps me going

Glenda said...

Your descriptions of grace at work in your life touch my heart and life! I just listened again to the song on my blog that says, "Your grace still amazes me."

Wendy @ E-1-A said...

"Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home..."

xx

Janettessage.blogspot.com said...

So sorry for your loss...and yes, GRACE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Debby@Just Breathe said...

I am so sorry for your loss. ((HUGS))

Chatty Crone said...

I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. There is no good time is there. But I am thrilled he loved the Lord and you do know where he is and that is comforting. Life is so short. Hugs.

Nana Jul said...

I am so sorry for your loss! It really makes you stop and take a good look at your own life when some one close to you dies. Grace is what will get you through. ps...I think you are just the right mixture of fight & intensity, it pulled you through all you have been through straight into Jesus' arms!
Love ya sister!
Jul

Cami said...

Oh Nikki.
My heart hurts for you.
SO. MUCH.
But I am thankful he knew God so we know he is saved & is now with Him.

I am so sorry for your loss. I pray for comfort & strength to you & his family.

oxoxoxoxo

Connie said...

I am so sorry for your loss. He sounds like he was very special. A life centered in gratitude and grace is the best way to be, I think. Wishing you peace. Prayers for you here.

Crown of Beauty said...

It's sad when a friend dies. When a precious friend or family member dies, it always leaves an empty spot in your heart, and nobody can ever fill that spot. I'm comforted to know your friend loved God. We know where he is now.

You call yourself "intense", I smiled as I read these words. Sometimes I find myself too laid back. I'd love to meet you face to face, and spend time talking with you. Over coffee, and doughnuts.

I love the blog world. God has given me the gift of amazing friendships in this medium.

Thank you for sharing your life with us, Nikki.

Yes, grace... I named my daughter grace. I never ever want to forget.

Love always
Lidia

Belle said...

I am so sorry you lost your friend but happy his life was in God. I love what you wrote about grace.