Sunday, July 3, 2011

Grandpa Duane Burge

"I looked at you- my eyes soft and full of care. I saw your body but your spirit was not there. It was roaming around, happy and care free. I know you were finally happy because I could feel you around me. You lived a great life and it was time to let go so you could be with the ones you did so carefully know. I will always remember you and the good times we had, the way you made me smile, and how you never seemed sad. It brings tears to my eyes because you aren't physically here, but I know you are home now. Ill hold your mem'ries near." - Me

This poem goes out to my Grandfather, Duane Burge, who passed away on July 3, 2011 at 2:00 am.

As i watched my grandfather lay in bed, I realized that this was no life to live. He would not be able to be the way he was if he were to get better because he had so many complications with his heart and his health in general. A few family members had said that they think his spirit left his body at some point when his body was shutting down. One thing that made it a little easier when i heard that, was knowing he wasn't in pain. His spirit wasn't obligated to stay and suffer through the pain that could have been present as his body tried healing itself. There was no need to remain in a situation like that.
My grandfather was truly a great man. From his leather working skills, to having the drive it took to obtain more knowledge about his favorite hobbies and dreams, to watching his grandchildren grow up, he certainly had the patience it took to do all these things. He had the motivation to teach his children and grandchildren the right way to live. He showed everyone that he could be there for them when in time of need. He was not hesitant to buy anything for his family if they could not afford it. He was the type of person that you could count on and know that he will take care of it. He had the best sense of humor and he knew how to be sarcastic, as most of the family is. He also knew how to be serious and still have that caring side to him. He was the first to jump with someone was in trouble. He had a brother and sisters who adored him. His crazy stories about his life made you eager to hear more. He would make dinosaur shaped pancakes for the kids who chose to stay the night. And best of all, my Grandpa Burge was the perfect match to my Grandma Cheryl. They completed each other. They were the perfect couple.


After staying by his side through his last moments, I knew that my life was blessed to have even known him. He made a great impact on many people. He is someone I can definitely look up to. It is astounding to know that life can change in the blink of an eye. Even though we do not want to think the worst when something happens, it is best to know that what is happening was supposed to happen. Some people call it fate, and others call it God's will. Which ever you prefer, just know that things will work out. Although it is hard to let go of a loved one, it's something everyone has to do at one point. However, we do not have to do this alone. We always have family, friends, neighbors, and most importantly, Heavenly Father. We are never alone no matter what. He will help us to let go of them because we will see them in heaven. Life on earth is but a short moment when compared to all eternity we get to spend with our loved ones in heaven.


**As I close this blog, I just wanted to say, I love you and miss you Grandpa! Everyone does! <3**