2nd Anniversary of Earline Braddock's Homegoing - August 21, 2008

(August 21, 2008)

My Dear Sweet Robert,

Today is the two year anniversary of your dear friend, Earline Braddock’s death. I remember it so clearly, because we were at Disney celebrating our birthdays, when you got that telephone call from Robert Braddock, telling you that Earline probably had only a few hours to live. We quickly packed up and left, heading back to Jacksonville. You were so quiet on the ride home. I know you were torn between wanting to get there in time to say your good-bye to her and at the same time being afraid to see her and almost hoping that you didn’t make it there in time. As it turned out, God took her home in His timing and we did not make it back in time.

I can imagine that she was right there on December 16, 2007, to help welcome you into Heaven. I can envision hearing her sweet voice saying, “Well, Hello Robert! I am so glad to see you here.”

She was your friend from many, many years back in your life. I am so glad that you were able to get reconnected with her.

I remember that we were fishing out on Mantanzas Inlet, when you got that phone call from Robert Braddock. You had not heard from him in years and he was trying to find you and tell you about Earline’s battle with cancer. You were devastated to hear of her illness. Tears rolled down your face as you told me about your special friendship that went all the way back to when you were teenagers.

I know that I was blessed to have the opportunity to become her friend, during her last years. My life became enriched because of knowing her. I enjoyed her immensely. One of the things I remember was Earlene’s optimistic attitude and I remember how we shared wonderful, long conversations about Jesus. She was ready to meet him. She had no fear of dying. She knew He had a placed already prepared for her.

As I think about you, I am comforted in knowing that you too, knew Jesus personally, and you also knew that He had a place already prepared for you.

One day, I will join you and we will rejoice together.
Until then…

Always Know That You Were Loved, And Never Will Be Forgotten

Love,
Kim
Phil. 4:13