This Lady is Nita

I've lived into what is now called the "Golden Years." Yes, I've lived long enough to rate senior discounts and to be called Ma'am and Grandma and "Hey Old Lady!" Because of this "live long and prosper" stage I've entered, I've also lived long enough to stand by while other people die. I've lost family and friends -- most of my family members -- a few friends, lots and lots of Branch members but mostly those who have passed onto the other side (so to speak)were older than me, frail and sick or living life-styles that contributed to an early demise. Until last week, December 23, I cannot recall being shocked at another passing like I was at my friend Nita's.

Why would I blog about this? Simple. Nita was my Summer Winter. Last September, reluctantly I must add, she and her husband, Clayton, posed for the cover of my book. Reluctantly, is probably not a strong enough word for Nita. Loath would probably work better. She did not want to be photographed! She did not want to be known as the woman on the cover. She hated looking at her picture. (The shadow is her husband who loved doing it cause he got to hold his gun :)) But because she was my friend and wanted to do something for me, she agreed. I love the cover--always have. It turned out exactly as I imagined. I knew the cost Nita gave and it made me feel special that she would give of herself in that manner... Now, I feel... I'm not sure. I miss her already. The pain at her loss is already subsiding but the longing to have said goodbye is strong and palpable. The joy in her sacrifice for me will ever be with me ... I hope anyway. Her laughter rings in my heart but each time I look at Nita as Summer, I get a little sad. I am grieving.

Because of my knowledge, I know I will see my friend and all those others who have passed from this life to the next, but the "mourn with those who mourn" is alive and well. I find great comfort in the gospel of Jesus Christ but doggone it, friends should not leave us...