A life well lived

Cliff got the news yesterday that a cousin had passed away at his home in Versailles, Missouri, only a few months after his mother, Cliff's Aunt Gertrude, left this world.  Although the aunt died in a nursing home, she had been living with Darrell for some time before that, due to her declining health; this worked out well for both of them because they could help one another out.  Darrell had been in poor health for years:  He got around on a mobility scooter and used oxygen to help him breathe, due to the fact his lungs were hardening.  He knew, as we all did, his time was limited.  Still, it was a shock when Cliff got the phone call.  I guess I assumed he'd be going to a hospital before he passed, or perhaps put on hospice.  

Maybe he wanted to die at home, though.  Most people wish for that gift.  

We saw Darrell occasionally before his mom died because she was living with him; he always knew the best place to eat in any town, and could give directions around various cities across the country as though he'd been everywhere!  I liked and admired him.  He was an expert on race cars.  He'd had ups and downs in his life, as we all do, but dealt with anything that came his way with common sense and humor. 

Because I'm a person who doesn't make friends easily, and have even been known to "push" folks away if they get too chummy, I do not have close friends.  I have one good friend who would do anything, even risk death, for me:  my husband.  Which is why, in my mind, the most amazing thing about Darrell was that he seemed to have so many genuine friends.  I try to imagine what it would be like to have such friends.  It's my own fault I don't, because I pull away when people start to get too close.  Folks, real friendships take work on both sides.  I'm lazy, and I'm selfish, and very much a loner.  I should add, though, that I do have many people who love me anyway, even if they can't break through my barrier.  

As I think about Cliff's cousin, here's what comes to mind:  Even when he had to use a scooter to get around, Darrell was helping folks.  He would drive older ladies to get their chemo and radiation, and take people to church when they couldn't get there on their own.  I'm sure he gave automotive advice to anyone who asked.   He hosted a men's Bible study in his home.

I went to his Facebook status and scrolled down; There was the last Youtube video he posted:  The Old Rugged Cross.   I believe Darrell had one foot in heaven for quite a while; all he had to do was take a step across the Jordan when it was time.  

His greatest testimony, though, was that he had so many true friends from every walk of life, each one a star in his crown.  I smiled at a remark he made on Facebook the day after that Bible study session:  

"Darrell Bias Danny Saville that guy who rode his motorcycle last night Made me cold when he rode away BRRRRR

THANKS FOR COMING GOOD GROUP OF GUYS 2 BIKERS . 2 HOT RODDERS . A COWBOY . THEN THE REST LOL"

Darrell lived the principle set forth in Proverbs 18:24:  "A man who has friends must show himself friendly, and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." 

I sure am glad I knew him.