Bob

So there are people we all know whom life has made bitter, cynical, angry, and just downright unpleasant to be around. They often use their age as an excuse for why they can't do something, go somewhere, or be different. But we all know that if they were younger, they'd just have another excuse. It would be the job or the family or something else that was keeping them from doing what they really wanted to do. In short, they live their lives in a sea of excuses and complaints, and we look at their lives and say, "Not me! I hope I never grow old like that!"

And then there are others who take advantage of every moment God gives them. They don't hide behind the excuses of money, age, or time. They live their lives to the fullest. Those are the people you look at for hope, for inspiration. Those people look at their spouses with just as much love today as they did on the day they married them. Those people travel the world and give generously, knowing that money is not the greatest legacy someone can leave. Values, love, and memories are. We look to these people with hope, as if they were an assurance that one can grow older without becoming bitter. These people are shining beacons in an otherwise dismal, bleak future.

When those people pass away, a deep sadness is felt, because we feel that a great amount of hope and joy has just been stolen from our world. And yet, of course, like with any brother or sister in Christ, we know that we're not saying goodbye, and that they are getting the better end of the deal. Nevertheless, someone who is constantly on your mind in life will not quickly cease to be there in death.

All who know Bob Brown will miss him greatly.