Читать книгу Why God Why? - Justin W. Tull - Страница 4

Loretta Pond, to whom this book is dedicated, battled courageously with cancer for seven years. As a close personal friend, it was difficult to accept the news of the onset of her illness at the early age of forty-three. Her lengthy battle ended on January 18, 1995.

During her illness, which was often filled with pain and debilitating weakness, I know that the question "why?" was raised by Loretta, her family, church members, and friends. But her final wrestling with this basic human question did not end in bitterness, resignation, or despair. Some prose, "I've Had It All," that she wrote less than a year before her death reflects her ultimate stance of gratitude.

I've Had It All

by Loretta Pond

Some people rail at death. There wasn't time to gather memories of the world and all its mysteries. They yearn for life's experiences, to travel to China and Hong Kong, Singapore and Italy, Germany and exotic tropical islands. And I reply, "I've done it all."

Some would say that love has cheated them. "I'll die alone," they cry. But I could never say it. I had one man to love me and he was always there—my rock in times of fear and suffering, a faithful partner, my best friend. "I've had it all."

Some cry that they cannot leave their children. In spite of age they have much growing up to do. They make wrong choices, are indifferent to responsibility, and their efforts are lazy. My children are beautiful in their hearts and in their ways. They take responsibility for learning what was taught, their values are high. I do not leave them knowing there is more they need of me. How blessed I am. "I've had it all."

"Friends and family? Where are they in my need?" some would say. But in health and in pain, my loved ones have been there for me, showing love and concern and positive words. From so many places, for so many years, I have been remembered by loving family and loyal friends. "I've had it all."

Some say they never had the time to volunteer and give their time to helping others through church and in community. They say, "Don't take me now, Lord. I just now have the time to give to others." I asked my community to let me serve their children and they said "yes" and elected me. After six years they said I was a good citizen. I felt so honored. "I've had it all."

For fifty years I have lived my life with few regrets. I have lived with love surrounding me and wonderful opportunities abounding. I cannot shake my fist and rail at any injustices dealt me, because it seems to me, "I have had it all," (Spring, 1994).