So much tragedy

     I have been struck the past few days with how tragic life can be.  My family is anxiously anticipating the return of my oldest daughter from college next week.  We miss her and cannot wait to have the family together for the holidays.  While the anticipation is exciting, I have also been bitten by the holiday bug.  Christmas music, decorating, baking, etc are going on at my home.  Through all of this, I still long for my son and am saddened that he is no longer with us.  This strange mix of emotions happen every year this time.  My heart aches for the one who is not with us, but I have moved on to being able to feel joy for what I have.
     As all of this goes on in my life, a friend of mine from high school is sitting by her husband's bedside watching him die of cancer.  I grieve for her and her children.  I pray for her family that this transition will be beautiful for the family allowing them to say goodbye and have some peace.
     This week, a dear friend of mine was betrayed by those who should have been helping him.  His life and the life of his family are now in turmoil.  Because he stood on his integrity and tried to do the right thing; he is being vilified by those who have chosen the route of intimidation and coercion.  I have offered many prayers on his behalf and truly hope that his broken spirit will be repaired.  I naively thought that this would not happen and that integrity would be rewarded.  how sad that it often isn't.
     Now, today the school shooting in Connecticut.  How can such evil be present in this world?  How can this all be happening?  I am only one person; yet I know of three sad instances?
     All of this has made me pray fervently.  my favorite Christmas song continues to run through my head.  it reminds me "God is not dead, nor does he sleep.  the wrong shall fail, the right prevail."