This was my view at a funeral yesterday. Let me be clear, I am not complaining; I am not mad; I am not frustrated. In fact, it was a blessing.
Yesterday, we celebrated the life of Chuck Stadeli. He was the father of one of my dearest, dearest friends from my hometown of Silverton. Last week, at the young age of 64, his life unexpectedly ended. I had just seen Chuck a few weeks ago at the grocery store. He gave me a hug, like he always did, asked me how I was doing and what I was up to. He said he was doing well, I gave him another hug, and left.
I had no idea that would be the last time I would see him.
I always saw him at Oktoberfest, which is coming up in a couple weeks. He was always there with his family, and we would always run into each other, something I looked forward to. It won't be quite the same without Chuck this year.
At his memorial, I had to watch my precious friend speak about her father, who has now gone on. She stood there so strong, and shared memories and her words conveyed so much love. And I realized something... While I stood there for 2 hours in the heat, in a church with no more seats left, and so many people standing, I could barely see, I was immensely blessed. I looked around and saw a man who had touched so many lives, who had helped raise 6 lovely ladies, who had demons and struggles, but had overcome.
I thought to myself, "I wonder if my life would have the same effect, if I would leave the same legacy, if my children would say the same things about me, if a church would be filled.."
It challenged me. Chuck challenged me. I was challenged to live every day like its my last - as cliche as it sounds - because you really never now when it will be. Chuck had no idea that his life was ending that day. And I am not guaranteed tomorrow either. Is what I am doing right now purposeful? Is what I am mad about worth it? Am I helping someone today? Am I creating a legacy?
You are already severely missed, Chuck. The hole that your death created is obvious. But your legacy is large and challenging and respected.
R.I.P.
