The Train

This is from our pastor Father Hank.  It is very appropriate for me and for all of us with the trials and tribulations we go through every day.  I offer it up in memory of my dear uncle Roy Winkle who will be buried near the home farm in Sardinia tomorrow, February 2, 2015.

"The following story, entitled “The Train”, was part of
someone’s Christmas greeting to me. I pass it on to you
because I think it has a powerful message.

“At birth we boarded the train and met our parents, and
we believe they will always travel on our side.
However, at some station our parents will step down
from the train, leaving us on this journey alone.

As time goes by, other people will board the train; and
they will be significant (i.e. our siblings, friends,
children, and even the love of your life). Many will step
down and leave a permanent vacuum. Others will go so
unnoticed that we don’t realize they vacated their seats.

This train ride will be full of joy, sorrow, fantasy,
expectations, hellos, goodbyes, and farewells. Success
consists of having a good relationship with all
passengers, requiring that we give the best of ourselves.

The mystery to everyone is: We do not know at which
station we ourselves will step down. So, we must live
in the best way, love, forgive, and offer the best of who
we are. It is important to do this because, when the time
comes for us to step down and leave our seat empty, we
should leave behind beautiful memories for those who
will continue to travel on the train of life."

I am thankful I've met an great amount of good people on this ride.  Some of you I have met and know personally, most of you I have not.  Wouldn't it be great if we could meet before this train ride is over?

Have a blessed Sunday and don't forget this train ride.  I know I don't forget, it is my life.

Ed