Smile Because It Happened

A quote from the great American children's writer, Dr. Seuss, is perhaps appropriate for our Westwood family this weekend. Dr. Seuss writes, "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." We prepare to say good-bye to the McKenzies this Sunday. For the better part of a decade they have been a part of our church family, with Brandi serving on staff as Director of Preschool and Children's ministries most recently. Doug has been reassigned by the United States Air Force to the Virginia Beach area and the family will be moving in a few weeks. Saying good-bye is a familiar task in Northern Virginia. Folks come and go and our lives are enriched because of the blessing of relationship we share, regardless of the length of the days that we spend together.

Our hearts are already heavy as we realize that these dear friends will no longer be among us. However, as in any relationship where separation brings sadness, there must also be the remembrance of blessing in the midst of heartache, for our lives are truly enriched by so many folks who come our way, even when they are ultimately led away from us. So, with gratitude to God for the blessing we have shared with the McKenzies, let us gather on Sunday to give thanks to God for these dear friends and wish them well as they, and we, begin new chapters of the wonderful story God continues to write among us.

I hope you will be present for worship Sunday and express your love and appreciation to Doug, Brandi, and children. As a family of faith, Westwood sends them out to be the light and love of Christ in a new workplace, new schools, new home, and a new family of faith. Though sad to see them go, let us remember the blessings we have shared together, and then, let our smiles overcome our tears. For all that we have shared together, don't cry because it's over, rather, let us smile, because it happened.

Jim Abernathy