Gratitude Journal – Day 36 – August 4, 2014

The week started much like any other, except with the realization that myDarlin’ Robert Kenui Pope has moved on to higher ground….. In honor of his love for music and his home in Hawaii, I’ve left the Kona flags that he was so proud of up at the end of the driveway. This morning as I locked the front door, and turned toward the driveway, I saw it…. a cloud mimicking the shape of the Kona flag. Good morning myDarlin’ I said as I snapped my#goodmorning photo for
Instagram/Twitter/Facebook.

I proceeded on my normal route (in my best Map app voice) down Sandy Plains, turning left onto Canton Road and found myself singing out of the blue.

Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in his wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of his glory and grace

Where did that come from? Oh wait, silly question, don’t answer that. It was the Holy Spirit with a personalized message just for me. Mahalo nui…

I joined Ohana at the Aloha Open Mic and was so happy to see everyone. A lady whom I’ve never met before asked me about the ring I wear around my neck, and I explained that it belongs to my husband Robert who has moved on to be with our Lord. She expressed her condolences, and then asked ‘how long has it been?’ When I responded June 22nd, she was shocked that I was ‘out so soon’. We all know that everyone handles the grieving process differently and that there is no right or wrong way. Robert & I value family and friends as the most important aspects of life, in addition to our love for the Lord and each other. A couple of people said to Lesli (she & Steve took over the Aloha Open Mic for Robert & me when he passed) this evening that there is such a warm and welcoming atmosphere here. I believe that it is Robert’s spirit that is still with us as we move through life, encouraging us to walk the walk as he did and to #LetGoLetGod.

Today I am filled with gratitude for our Ohana (family & friends) that hold us close, and for the Holy Spirit who sends signs that Robert is rejoicing in heaven, and encourages us to #KeepLookingUp.