Monday, January 16, 2012

Under One Roof

A lot of things have been happening in the Melville household since the holidays. I don't know where to begin, in fact.

Jonathan and I have a new roommate. My best friend/former college roommate, Lezlee, is temporarily living with us while she makes a life transition. She (plus her dachshund, Stella!) joined our household just before the new year. We're all looking at this as an adventure—we expect this arrangement will have ups and downs—fortunately we love each other dearly and possess the unrivaled gift of communication.

The biggest down of all: On Jan. 5, Lezlee received the devastating news that her mother, Christine—the woman responsible for most of Lezlee's artistic passion, determined spirit, humor and so much more—had passed away of heart failure. What does a friend do or say in that moment to bring comfort? All you can do is hold each other and cry. And that's what we've done. Needless to say, Lezlee, her father and her two sisters, have been surrounded by love and prayer. But, it's been rough. I've watched them go through this with grace, and I admire them deeply. I'm in awe of how this family has rallied together as they've held each other close and been each other's primary source of comfort. Chris would be proud.

I've relearned a very important lesson over the past few weeks. Lezlee—and my other dear friends—are a part of my family. I thank God for them. And family sticks together through life's ups and downs. Please pray for this family—and don't forget to tell your family how much you love them. And do it often.

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