I wore a pair of black jeans and a white and black sweater, cotton, which happens to be one of my favorites. I then ate a small breakfast, packed a lunch and headed off to work. I cried on the way to work, while singing and praying, and made it to work 30 mins early, which was planned. I wanted to hit the ground running and show extra effort to my boss, who is always at work an hour on Thursdays before heading to her second store.
A few supplies were needed for the day, so I volunteered, and walked down the the shop praying for strength to get through the day. The ladies at work asked me gently about my loss, and wanted to know who it was as they had all lived in this area most of their lives. They were shocked, saddened when they found out who it was. through out the course of the day I shared bits and pieces to answer the questions.
But the part that really touched me was at lunch, I noticed for the first time that each and every one of my coworkers had worn black. not just a shirt or pants, but nearly completely black. I was amazed and comforted. I do not think they planned this, but even if they did it was such a nice gesture and very unexpected. Even the lady that only works Thursday closing, whom I only see once a week wore black.
It was very clear to me, that even though I am only an intern there at the shop, it would appear by today's events that they think highly of me. Its not everyday that one wears the outfit of morning when a coworkers friend has died.
I read through the sermon I got in the email yesterday, and have a whole new picture on death. It is so encouraging, so beautiful, and comforting. I never before saw death as a beautiful thing, unless one had been suffering from illness. But to see how God views his sleeping saints brought more tears to my eyes, and the pain around my heart vanished. I still felt a weight on my chest, and I was still fuzzy in my head and un-concentrated, but the pain was gone. I grieve yes, for I still will not be able to hug her, touch her and smile and laugh with her, but to her.... only a month passed since she last saw me. And when she awakens, at some point in heaven, we will find each other and can once again be the best of friends.
I ran across a pita bread recipe, which have posted below. have been trying to make these for years and plan to make them next week. Maybe you would like to give it a try?
http://www.thefreshloaf.com/recipes/pitabread
