Amazing Grace

I had written in an earlier post that my friend Bill Groski had passed away last Tuesday.

On Saturday, we had a “Celebration of life cookout” at Kay and Bill’s house in Apex. Bill’s brother Jim, his wife Nancy, and a couple of Bill’s childhood friends were there, as well as Kay’s family. Her brother John said a few words about Bill, and explained how Bill and Kay were best friends above all else.  As he spoke, the sun shone brightly, and a calm soothing breeze swayed through the trees. To me, it felt like Bill was there, watching over us from Heaven.

Then Bobby spoke for a few minutes, talking about Bill’s infectious laugh, and how much he loved Kay.

To be honest, it initially felt really weird. We’ve had so many parties at their house, it was not right, without Bill being there. But as John and Kay put it, Bill would be happy to see his friends and family there, talking to each other, and looking at the beautiful yard, where Bill had done so much work. As time passed by, I felt more comfortable, and was able to relax a bit.  As it grew dark, Kay’s brother Dave set off some fireworks. That’s when Kay started distributing candles to everyone, and we formed a ring around the pond. Near the house, each person lit the next person’s candle, going all the way around the pond. Then with all the candles lit, we stood around the pond and sang “Amazing Grace”.  As we were lighting the candles, Bobby worried that the breeze would keep blowing the candles out. I felt that Bill would take care of that, and that’s exactly what he did. There was not even a slight breeze, as we all sang “Amazing Grace”. It is something that I will never forget.

Not long after that, I took Bobby home, and we sat in his living room and talked about life for a while. When things like this happen, it makes you realize that life is precious, and that we shouldn’t take anything for granted.

So, if you happen to read this, spend as much time as you can with the ones that you love. You never know when things can change.

Peace!