In God's Hands

Today, I attended a funeral. 

I have not been able to stop thinking about it since and I felt I just needed to write...that's just what I do. My heart is full and my eyes are freely-flowing. Chels and I went to show support for one of our dearest childhood friends and family we have known and loved since we were 10 or 11. Their oldest son and brother died in a motorcycle accident last Saturday. He was 27. 

The chapel was filled with friends and loved ones. Service men and women in their uniforms lined the chapel. It was a sight I will never forget. (He was dedicated to his military professional and served in Iraq.) The service was beautiful as family and loved ones celebrated the life of a son, brother, and loving father who left this Earth very early in life. The moment they brought in his casket draped with an American Flag to the front of the chapel, followed by his family and loved ones, I lost it. I sat there biting my lip the whole time to keep myself from breaking out into an uncontrollable sob. 

Words will never adequately articulate the sacredness and beauty of the service. Nor do I think I can ever do it justice, for I cannot even fathom the feelings and emotions the Oomrigar family is experiencing at this time. I just wanted to express how the service made me feel. It was unlike any funeral I have ever had the opportunity to attend. 

As I watched the casket enter the chapel I felt deeply saddened, hurt, and at loss for words as to why a family has to endure such pain. Although, I still feel those things, as the casket was escorted out, I felt uplifted, empowered, and full of a love, a love for our Savior and mankind. I left wanting to be a better person, wanting to stay true to myself and most importantly to this Gospel so that, one day, I too, may live with my family and loved ones again. I left wanting to put aside all of my personal needs so I can more fully serve others, unconditionally--as many commemorated Jal's life, and how it was filled with service. I left feeling a sweet, peaceful reassurance that everything will work out for this sweet family. 

With the business of our daily responsibilities in life, it is so easy to lose sight of what is really important. We didn't come to this life for fame, power, or fortune. We did not come here to climb to the highest rung on our "success" ladder only to look down to see we neglected and left those that mattered most.  We must not lose sight of what's most important in life. We will find greater happiness and purpose when we align our priorities accordingly. 

One thing I loved that was mentioned in the service was the fact that we must remember we are all children of God and we are loved beyond comprehension. God has a plan for each of us. He will never forsake us, and we must remember to never forsake Him. 

We are all imperfect. We all make mistakes. I was reminded of the importance of using the Atonement of Jesus Christ more readily to purify and cleanse our lives. We mustn't put off today, what we think we will do tomorrow. Do it today. Do it now. Forgive your enemies or those that hurt you, express love and appreciation for those around you. Today I was reminded just how precious life really is.

I left, a changed person, in the best way possible.

As we sang, "I Believe in Christ" and listened to a piano arrangement of "I Need Thee Every Hour," the spirit pierced my heart. How grateful I am for the gospel of Jesus Christ; for the knowledge and perspective it gives in times like these. I love this endearing family and pray that they may find peace and healing through this difficult time and all time after. I will forever and always look up to the Oomrigar family and feel deeply grateful for the relationships we have formed--whether we are together or apart. The strength and faith which your family has demonstrated through trials is simply astounding. All of you radiate a light and joy that goes unmatched. I love you all. Thank you, Thank you, Oomrigar Family, for showing me some of the greatest truths in life. 

I know God lives. I know He is taking care of your son!

Jal Oomrigar (1986-2013)

Jal sent this video to his mother a few weeks ago. Portions of it were read by his sister and our friend, Jasmin, at the service. The end part makes me cry every time as I think about Jal sending this to his family. I know these words are truth, if you have a second, you will not regret watching this: