On April 26th, I had the honor of holding onto these precious babies in the moments that their precious daddy passed away. Paul Coleman fought through unimaginable pain over the course of 11 years, alongside his fiercely protective and faithful wife, Janette. There are some people that bring so much light and strength into the world, that even after they've gone, everything they've ever touched still shines. Nothing helps us understand the fleeting beauty of life more than death. Nothing helps us understand what is important in life more than death. Nothing helps us understand what is important in life more than death. I remember a couple years ago, after receiving some devastating news at the doctor, I was so distraught I thought my heart might explode. Without being asked, Paul showed up at our house and just sat next to me quietly. He didn't really say much, but he gave me one of the most sincere bear hugs I've ever received. And just knowing that it was coming from someone who has seen the darkest sides of mortality gave me unspeakable comfort. His sense of humor always helped too. J.K. Rowling said, "Those we love never truly leave us...there are things death cannot touch." Paul's death will never erase the living memories we have of him. It won't erase his everlasting relationships. And it won't take away the lessons learned by all of us who have watched as he and Janette gracefully navigated through the triumphs and defeats of this impossible illness. It meant the world to me to hold his girls during that time...these three little pieces of immortality, with Janette's faithful compassion, and Paul's tenacity and good looks. Janette, please know that you are not alone. You have earthly friends and family, and heavenly angels surrounding you as you grieve. Grief is the price we pay for love. We are here for you. We love you.
We planted a Paul Memorial Garden in our backyard. The flowers have gone crazy this summer!
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