Losing Someone
Scientific psychology confirms the fact that one of the most stressful life changes we experience is the loss of a loved one. I believe most of us can agree on that one. When we are in a stable period of our life, it's acceptable for us to state that death is inevitable and it is a part of life. Then, unexpectedly, someone we care about is really gone; that’s when we are tested. It may seem like there are no rules for this. After all, how are you supposed to respond? Some may become totally incapacitated while others seem to have a low level of concern. Who is correct?
I’ve got to tell you that I am not an expert on this topic. I am going to share what Ed Thomas taught me about this topic by the way he lived his life and what has been revealed to me following his death.
Ed Thomas and the Thomas family are a living example that the most difficult times in life are made bearable through unrelenting faith. After tragedy, we do not question God’s will. We get up, hard as it may be, and live on in our faith.
Ed Thomas taught me that when others are troubled in their lives, the most important thing we can be is a listener- not a talker. Then, we do not repeat what we were told. When asked for guidance based on teachings from the bible. After loss, it's ok not to know what to say. Be a listener.
Ed Thomas made it easier for us to accept his leaving because we witnessed him living each day of his life to create his path to Heaven. What a comfort knowing he is there. The way he lived his life made those around him want to be better. He did not wait until it was too late to show appreciation. He made certain those he loved knew it. Nothing was left unsaid.
The Ed Thomas Family Foundation was conceived from losing someone that was loved by so many. There are 2 points that I believe we should notice from this. One, is that something good can come out of tragedy if we have faith and look hard for it. Secondly, one person CAN make a big difference. They impact others during their life and their impact can continue through those they touched even after they leave. That’s a legacy.
Thank you Ed Thomas for all you taught me and countless others.