Quality Time
Not gonna lie, we were a busy family. That’s mostly my doing as a textbook extrovert. We had been married almost ten years and had jobs, church, life group, Bible study groups, School Board, Boy Scouts, dance lessons, swim lessons, piano lessons, birthday parties, and many other activities. I kept an organized master calender and we consulted it often as we navigated schedules. Having stuff to do is not intrinsically bad. But it certainly reduced the quality time we spent with each other and our kids.
Even though the past six weeks were devastating, because I don’t know how being handed a death sentence wouldn’t be, they were so meaningful. Besides the obvious fact that we knew our time together would be limited, I think what we didn’t realize was how nice it was to spend intentional, uninterrupted time together, as a couple, as a family, and with extended family and friends. We talked, we sat in silence, we ate, we reminisced, we prayed, we watched movies, we looked at each other, we planned, we dreamed, and we said goodbye.
Without hesitation, I would trade back those 46 days to have Simon here again. But the time we spent together during those days was a gift – it made me believe in love again. Not just the romantic kind, but the kind that makes you feel alive as you spend time with people who are in it for the long haul. Simon said multiple times how grateful he was, how he had gotten everything he wanted. He was surrounded in love and confident in God’s promises. And as I assess the stuff we have and the things we did, it is so evident that who we are and the love we share is what really matters.
Beautifully said. Thoughts of your family today and the days ahead. Prayers to the Father.
What a gift quality time is! So glad you and Simon and your family were able to rest in that these past weeks.
You always make me cry!
<3
So true! I’m so saddened my Simons Los and how that impacts your family now and in the future. I’m praying for you and the kids and Tom and Donna Ann etc. I’m also grateful that Simon had this time with loved ones and thankful to hear that his life was just how he wanted to live it. So full but too short. It sounds cheesy to say, but I’ve been inspired by talking to Simon, reading your blog, and hearing all the stories about Simon. Yes, we would trade all these blessings to have Simon back in this life, but I’m still thankful for them. Love you guys.
Your blog has touched my heart & I feel as if I know you. You & your family have been in my thoughts & prayers since I first read your blog .
…my heart breaks every time I read a post. I know you know you are loved and you and the fam are constantly in my thoughts and prayers! Love you friend! <3
Kristy, your writing stirs my heart each time I read your blog, so much love, grace and truth packed in your family’s journey. May I have permission to share this piece on “Quality Time”. In our crazy fast paced culture we need to continue to sound the gongs to slow down. God gave you that cherished time with Simon and the kids…such a great gift for all of us. You and your family are in our prayers.
Of course Vic! Share away.
So very well stated. What an awesome, insightful mate he had. Y’all are in our prayers.
Kristy,
Your BHC family surrounds you with love. Thank you for sharing the journey with us. Your strength and all enduring love is an inspiration to all. What an awesome example you are of God’s peace which surpasses all understanding. With hearts and hands joined with you we wish you safety and peace on your trip this week.
Did I mention that I love you tons?I do.