A note from my dad

Dear Family,
From the book of Job, Chapter 1, verse 22 (b):
The Lord has given and the Lord has taken away;
may the name of the Lord be praised."

Lu's mom, my mother-in-law, Kristi and Sheryl's grandmother, died this afternoon at about 3:00. Many of us were there at the time. The pastor of their church came for a brief service at noon. We celebrated communion and commendation of the dying as well as singing several songs in English and Swahili. She was able to give minimal response at that time. We have all been there much of the week. Lu, Kristi, and Sheryl helped with the necessary physical cares. Kristi cooked several meals. Lu's sister, Rachel, was able to stay much of the week and, with all of the sisters involved, the family was able to provide the "end-of-life" cares in their home. It was (allowing her to stay at home) a decision that we all concurred on but it was hard. Lu has said several times that it has been the hardest week of her life. We are, through the sadness of personal loss, rejoicing in her complete healing. We will have a family gathering at the funeral home tomorrow evening and a memorial service on Saturday.