Gale

So yesterday was my Uncle Gale's funeral.

We showed up right on time and were seated immediately. All the way there I was holding back the flooding tears. And when they started to play that wonderful song, "I can only Imagine" the flood gates were opened. Even tho I didn't know my uncle incredibly well, it was just so overwhelming. He's a loved one and thats all that matters.
My cousin, Kyle, preached a great message. A few more songs were played. Then we had a sharing time of memories of who he was and being with him. The last time I saw him was in April.

We were at my aunts house for a family reunion and all my family members and I were exchanging hugs and I didn't even notice him sitting in the corner when he rubbed my back and said, "well, do I get a hug" In turn I didn't even say anything but gave him the biggest hug I had in me.

After the ceremony we were escorted 45mins to the cemetery and when we got there my cousin preached a few more words, then, because my uncle served in the national guard, they shot off 3blank rounds, that by the way , scared the day lights out of me; and then we left and went to my aunts house and had a wonderful time. Saw a lot of family I haven't seen for years. Served my uncles favorite foods, including taco's and doughnuts. ;)

He was the most patient, loving, funniest person I knew.
And I was thinking, you know, he died right before Christmas, how sad, but then God said to me,
yes, I took him home early, but he got the greatest gift of all and he is now in paradise with me. No more sorrow, no more pain, trials or doctor visits. He's with the Lord now and thats the best place to be.

I had to share this because he was really special and I really loved him.

God Bless,
Mandie

May you all have a very blessed special Merry Christmas!