A Thank You from the Schlueters

compassionThere are a precious few in this world who are capable of understanding how to respond in times of loss. This thank you is to those who get it.

Thank you to those who are able to look beyond public image and big works and see hurting people in crisis and reach out.

Thank you to those who refuse to pile on with  judgments based on ignorance and hate at a time already fraught with complexity and anxiety.

Thank you to those who came to this small blog this last week, because you see our family and the Russ Turner family as people worthy of kindness and respect, and with an intent to pray for us or offer to help, rather than satisfy your idle curiosity for purposes of gossip. Your decency is worth more than gold. And just as rare.

My father, Vic Eliason, died last Saturday in the hospital. We were there, as we had been earlier in the week. Life is not a Hallmark movie. It would be nice if we could write the endings, wouldn’t it? But on this broken planet, life doesn’t always work out the way we hope and pray. All of us can only do what we can do. We are not in control. We are not in charge.

One thing my sister’s family and mine have seen often in the past years, is that every piece of the shattered glass of our lives can be part of a new mosaic. But it only happens if we give the pieces to God for arranging. What seems like unbelievable destruction really can be beautiful. Those in the middle of their own struggle can look up at God’s lovely design, see the light of His presence through the glass and say, “You can do that for me, too, God. Give me faith and courage.”

A blessed and Christ-filled Christmas to all who have stopped by.

 

12 thoughts on “A Thank You from the Schlueters”

  3. terriergal says:

    Hugs to your family and your sister’s family. All of you who have been dealing with this situation and horrific oppressive burden it has caused you, are such beautiful examples of God’s sustaining grace and faithfulness.

  4. Donna says:

    My wonderful friend–we transcend religion and politics and such because we have so much in common. (pork, shmork). My husband and I are always here for you and yours. Have a blessed Christmas.

  5. Julie Anne says:

    Praying for grace and peace to your family, Ingrid. Thank you for your honesty and transparency during these past years. Your reality is the reality of many others and yet through your pain, you give hope to others who are walking a similar path.

  6. Ron Whited says:

    So very sorry for the loss of your father Ingrid. In times like this it seems the only comfort we have is from our Lord and I am so thankful that we can depend upon His faithfulness to be there for us. Praying for you and your loved ones during this difficult time.

  7. Beverley says:

    Praying for all near and dear to you, Ingrid. May your Christmas and days ahead be blessed as you continue to marvel and trust in a beautiful Lord and Saviour.

  8. Judi Hayes says:

    Ingrid, thank you for this beautiful post. Sad and beautiful at the same time. A virtual hug to you and your family seems paltry, but it’s all I can do. I am so glad that we have a heavenly Father who is perfect and completely trustworthy. And we have a Friend who sticks closer than a brother. Ultimately, He is enough. But still, in our humanity, it is so comforting when His people respond as His Hands and Feet to help and comfort. I am glad that you have Him to cling to and also real people who love like He does. Here’s a little Emily Dickinson: ❤ Hope is the thing with feathers—
    That perches in the soul—
    And sings the tune without the words—
    And never stops—at all—

    And sweetest—in the Gale—is heard—
    And sore must be the storm—
    That could abash the little Bird
    That kept so many warm—

    I've heard it in the chillest land—
    And on the strangest Sea—
    Yet, never, in Extremity,
    It asked a crumb—of Me.
    Emily Dickinson

  10. Teresa says:

    Prayers for you during this difficult time. Loss is so hard, and it’s hardly ever neat and tidy. So thankful that our Father can comfort you and your family. Blessings to you ❤

  11. Jules LaPierre says:

    Remembering you and yours at this painful time & praying that the God of all comfort blesses you.

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