Some of you may have wondered where I have been the past week. I generally post 3-4 reviews a week, but this week things were a little different. Sunday evening my husband got a call from his older brother — a call no one wants to receive. My brother-in-law had been involved in a motorcycle accident and we were urged to get home as soon as we could. Home for my husband is a 6 hour car ride. Before we could get the car packed, the second call came letting us know that Darrell had died. What ensued was a drive through the night to get to my mother-in-law, a second drive to embrace my sweet sister-in-law and her three children ages 23, 20, and 18 — way too young to lose their father. The week progressed with more tears than I can count, but also an outpouring of love that is indescribable. My brother-in-law, Darrell Burnham, lived his life with gusto. He also lived his faith. 3000+ people came to the visitation to tell us how much he meant to them. 100 pastors in Honduras had a prayer meeting for our family.
Our lives are not our own. We impact the people around us for good or bad. I challenge you and myself to live a life like Darrell’s. Here is the letter my niece posted on her FB page.
On Sunday October 19, 2014 I lost the greatest man I have ever known. My daddy. Not only was he a brilliant physician, he was my role model, my best friend and the rock of our family. He always wore the biggest and most contagious smile that would light up every room. He was so selfless and loved so deeply. Most importantly he had such a passion for Christ and it was evident in everything he did. This world is a better place because it knew him. He left a mark on the world that will never be forgotten. His mission on earth was to live a life that reflected our Lord and savior and to impact others in such a way that they would come to know Him. And I believe he did just that. He was perfect to me. I will forever be grateful for the 23 years that God allowed me to have with my daddy. I was so lucky to be his daughter. To live under the legacy of Darrell Burnham. The world lost the greatest man but heaven gained the most perfect angel. He wasn’t ready and neither were we but he was prepared. I know my dad heard the words “well done my good and faithful servant” as he entered the gates of heaven. There won’t be a day that goes by I don’t miss my dad. He will always be the first person I think about every morning when I wake up. I will love him with my whole heart forever. I can honestly say I have never felt the presence of God as strongly as I did today as I celebrated my dad’s wonderful life. I know my dad was beaming down from heaven and this gives me so much hope. It isn’t over. We aren’t finished. I know I will see my daddy again one day in heaven with Jesus Christ. On behalf of my mom, Luke and Drew we want to thank each and every one of you for every text, call, message, shared story of my dad, hug and so much more. We can’t even begin to tell you how much it has meant to us. We would not make it without the love and support that we have gotten from our community. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you so much. We love you.
Your brother-in-law Darrell obviously lived his life a as reflection of the Lord. You’re family I am sure is covered in prayer, but I do add my own to the Lord to continue to sustain you all with His perfect peace, love and comfort.
Thank you so much Kelly.
My husband and I continue to pray for the Burnham family during this great loss.
Thank you so much, Mary. Your prayers are very much appreciated.