this isn't 'it'

Yesterday was the last day at my church office job. Next Monday I start work at the junior high with a week of 'staff development' days, then on the 14th school starts and I'll be an educational aide. For what subjects, I don't know yet - but I guess they'll let me know what I need to know next week. I feel like riding my bicycle, but it's so hot I think I'd pass out before I got to the end of the driveway. There are lots of sad things going on with several of my friends right now .... it's odd how situations that other people are dealing with can trickle down and affect other families. I've just been sort of somber the last few days thinking about friends who are: spending the last few days with a parent diagnosed with cancer -- undergoing biopsy procedures -- feeling alone and sad for different reasons -- going through divorce or separation -- dealing with children who are making bad choices -- hurting because of illness or accidents. I believe in eternity and I'm glad I do -- otherwise, this would be a pretty miserable existence we have. In an odd way, it's comforting to know this isn't "it" - even though it's all we know now and it seems sad and scary to think of leaving here in whatever way we end up leaving ... I'm glad to know there's a heaven and I'm going there. Doesn't make it any easier to watch the sadness around here - and sometimes I do wish I had a little insight into 'the big picture', but I think that's me wanting control that isn't mine to have. Just have to give it up and know, as my friend Sandy says, "God is bigger..."