Goodbye, Tom...Thank you, Diane!

Two people that were guests at the Inn a number of times were Tom and Diane Weber. They had a steady and gentle way of getting acquainted with Sister Chanelle and myself. I experienced both of them as very people-centered, giving and lots of fun. As time went on we learned that Tom had cancer: multiple myeloma. Tom died September 2^{nd --} this Labor Day. This seemed to be a fitting day since Tom extended his hand to so many people during his life.

During the last couple of months of his life Tom was on hospice at home. Sister Chanelle and I had a chance to visit them. We were also blessed to be with Diane, family and friends at the funeral.

Tom was an initiator and Diane is as well; persons who make things happen. Because of their ideas and suggestions we have been able to beautify the entrance of the Inn with a new pathway, perennials, hanging baskets and colorful flowers. They also led a birding weekend here at the Monastery. They are good friends! We are grateful for Tom's presence and ideas for the Inn and our prayers go out to his wife Diane.

(A poem suggested by Diane for Tom’s Mourning Card)

Grief never ends,

But it changes.

It’s a passage,

    Not a place to stay.

The sense of loss

Must give way
If we are to value
The life that was lived.
Grief is not a sign of weakness,
Nor lack of faith.
It is the price of love.

 -Anonymous