this circle really doesn't have a beginning or an end, does it...

i have been surrounded by thoughts of death and the end of things this week. rachael dies, alexander is left to mourn her loss.

and then yesterday, our dear frends steven and beth welcomed into this world two new lives, sebastian jakob and julien thomas, twins that have been nine months in the waiting.

loved ones depart and leave a wake of mourning. new life arrives upon a wave of rejoicing. and we get a front row seat to watch it all go by.

'You give and take away
still my heart will choose to say
blessed be Your Name'

may i have enough mercies in my heart to bless Your Name when faced with death.
and may i remember to sing Your Name above any others when i rejoice with new life.