Relationships should be our most treasured items/experiences on earth.  Of those, families should be at the top of the list.

I can only remember attending four funerals or memorial service so far in my life.  Years ago, my Mom’s father (first time I was in a funeral procession as well).  Ten years ago, my brother-in-law’s funeral.  This past fall my best friend’s dad.  Today, my father’s.
Allen Nelson was a survivor.  From polio as a teenager, to at least a hand’s worth (ok, onto the next set of fingers as I now count) of ailments in his adult years that could have taken him earlier.  But, he survived 83 years worth of medical issues.  Today I believe he is still a survivor because of the promise of his faith.  

Farewell dad, we’ll carry on without you.

Perhaps a great way to end 2007 is with the Irish Blessing that I closed dad’s memorial service with this afternoon.

May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warmly on your face,
May the rain fall gently on your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hallow of His hands.