Goodbyes...

So this past Friday was my boss' last day of work for the YMCA of Central Kentucky. Jan has accepted a position with YMCA of the USA - which is a huge opportunity for her! While I'm more than excited for this new phase in her life, it makes me sad to think that she won't be right next door, or stopping in to do her "happy dance" because of an email/phone call she just received, or simply getting hugs from her for no reason at all. Jan has certainly been more of a friend to me than a boss, though she's done a phenomenal job here at our Y. We had a farewell celebration for her last week and to hear everything that people had to say about Jan made me so thankful to have had this opportunity to work with her... even if only for a short while. Jan - I miss you already! The plus side to this story is that she doesn't have to relocate, so we'll still get to see her around Lexington. I'm grateful for all she's taught me and hope to maintain our friendship for many years to come.

On a much more difficult note, a friend of my cousin's passed away last Friday morning. Ryan Sweeney has battled Cystic Fibrosis for 27 years. He has struggled greatly over the past 2 months and on June 6 around 5:30 am, Ryan asked to be taken off the ventilators. He said he was tired of fighting and was ready to go home to the Lord. I can't imagine what it must be like to hold that decision in your hands, knowing what you're leaving behind. And yet... he knew exactly what he was entering into! His wife, Kristin, and twins, Lily & Wyatt, said goodbye to Ryan in a Celebration of Life service yesterday morning. He was truly an inspiration to all of us for how to live life to its fullest, how to be thankful in all circumstances, and how to love God and others unconditionally. While I only interacted with him a few times throughout his life, he has left a lasting legacy. If you have some time, read some of these stories from a family who has walked through the fire and have been upheld by the hand of God each step of the way. Kristin writes so eloquently and displays a strength that can only come from our Heavenly Father. She, Lily & Wyatt will certainly appreciate your prayers for the days and weeks to come. I can't imagine the loss that they are experiencing, but what hope they have in knowing that they will see him again!! Praise God for His gift of salvation and eternal life! He is worthy of ALL the glory!