Legacy of Love

I am so grateful to everyone that attended the service today. It was bittersweet to feel such deep sadness and then incredible joy to see friends I haven't seen in a while. There was truly a presence of love and grace in the room.

Thanks for your gracious comments about my talk. Here it is:


Legacy of Love
By Rev Christine Green

Laurence made living in love seem effortless and natural. Looking back I realize now his unwavering intention and commitment. There were simple principles that allowed him to live a life of love and grace.

Paid attention. Laurence gave each person his full concentration. Whether it was the waiter bringing his meal or the nurse drawing his labs, he inquired about their jobs, families and their interests. He remembered birthdays and anniversaries and acknowledged important dates. He stayed connected with his Mom, his siblings and his children. He took the time to truly listen. I was so grateful for his willingness to listen to my ideas, concerns and dreams. Unless of course it was a Sunday in the middle of a game during football season or Saturday during college season or March Madness. But other than that, he was an extraordinary listener.

Stepped aside. He opened the door for everyone and always let others go ahead. This simple act was a symbol for his humbleness and generosity. He genuinely wanted others to succeed. He didn’t dwell on disappointment but focused on the next task at hand. Rather than be hurt by an offhand comment, he would step aside from the remark and not take it personally. He was willing to forgive.

Spread joy. Laurence had a great sense of humor, a brilliant smile and a contagious laugh. When times were tense, he spoke up in one of his funny voices or cracked a silly joke. His face lit up with joy when he talked about his children and grandchildren. When I was worried or troubled, he took my hand and we danced.

Gave thanks. Laurence’s most frequent words were thank you. He blessed and gave thanks each day for his family. He thanked me for doing the laundry, for running errands and for taking care of our home. He thanked every person in the hospital whether they emptied the trash, took his blood or diagnosed a test. He always noticed and acknowledged what people were doing right. And he always gave thanks to God.

Walked in faith. Laurence was deeply devoted to God and never once lost his faith. After his stroke he fervently practiced reading and memorizing Psalm 103. He joyfully prayed with each prayer partner that entered his room.

Doing each of these things alone is admirable. Together they morph into the exquisite expression of love. This was Laurence’s legacy of love. But I realized there was one more thing.

Laurence taught me how to receive. Receive his love and generosity as a husband, his compassion and thoughtfulness as my friend, his wisdom as my teacher. He reminded me each day of the importance of receiving God’s love.

When our world unraveled with Laurence’s health challenges this past year I once again learned to receive. I asked for your prayers and you responded earnestly. I needed help at the hospital and a team of loving, supportive friends visited Laurence regularly for five months at the hospital and rehab, to talk with him, pray with him, laugh with him, and assist him with whatever he needed. I am so grateful to receive your homemade meals, airport rides, massages, your loving phone calls, encouraging emails and your constant prayers. Thank you so much for your generosity and for your gracious gifts.

One day at the hospital I read a few of the letters and cards you sent to Laurence and when I finished he commented, “We have stellar friends.” Yes we do. Praise God.

Thank you for being stellar friends. Thank you for being gracious givers and receivers. Laurence was truly a gift from God. We have all been blessed and are changed forever. I love you Laurence. Thank you God.