ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

It was a few years ago. I’d had a bad day. So bad, that my husband suggested a long drive so I could clear my head and turn the bad into good. I think this was close to the beginning of our precious road trips. We hopped (embellished) into the car and began a long drive to a specific pie shop in Stockholm, WI. It was a favorite spot to visit in the past. We quickly escaped the sounds and sights of Minneapolis and St. Paul and began our entrance into the hills and valleys of Wisconsin. Some of the historic towns along the way called out for us to stop, but we had our sights set on a slice of freshly homemade pie. The scenery was breathtaking.

As the ride continued, I could feel the stress of the day melt from within me. My attitude had changed considerably. I could feel God’s creation wrapping around me and erasing anything that had before made my day miserable. We approached the quaint little town. There is nothing like nature to get you back on track. The town seemed empty, compared to past visits. We arrived at the pie shop and discovered that it was closed. I could’ve turned that moment into another rabbit hole to fall into, but by then it didn’t matter. The frustrations of the early part of that day had vanished into a refreshing outing.

As I get into the car today, I feel alone. My life partner is no longer in the seat beside me – encouraging and lifting me out of a dark pit. Life has changed for me and all those of you who have lost a loved one. Grief is hard. It’s a process that goes on forever, but each day becomes a little easier when you let it. Trusting in God’s promises is essential. He alone will walk beside you every minute of every day.

You’re no longer here beside me,

I miss you every day.

But our God is here to guide me,

And lead me through each day.

It’s hard for me to forget you,

You live within my heart.

In paradise I’ll join with you,

We’ll never be apart.