It's been almost a year since we spoke last. You were laboring so hard for breath. I did most of the talking(as usual)! You were such a good listener. How I miss our talks! We talked about our children, our wives, hunting, fishing, but mostly about God. I always felt like I could tell you anything and I had no fear of it going any further. I miss the sound of your gravelly deep voice on the phone saying, "hey Brother!", as you answered, or "I love you, brother" before you hung up.
I watched you that last year as cancer, like the waves on a beach, incessantly beat against your body. Your spirit was indeed willing and strong but the old flesh could not hold up. Yet, as your body slowly decayed I watched in awe as your spirit and nature became more and more like Christs'. Truly as Darrell decreased Jesus increased! It was an amazing thing to see. No bitterness, malice, anger, unforgiveness....just love. How many hearts you touched!  You taught me not to be too judgemental. Those last few months you seemed to always be able to see the good in every situation and in everyone. How people were drawn to you! When you became too weak to go to them, God would bring them to you. I miss you.  But....I'm so glad for you. You don't have to see the ugliness of satan's handiwork or feel the sorrow that sin brings. No more worry, fear, or tears. No more pain, only peace that passes all understanding. Only beauty that defies description. Only joy unspeakeable. Only the glorious,  marvelous. holy presence of God. What does Jesus look like? Did He show you the nail prints in His hands?  Have you walked with Him by the sea of glass? What does the angelic choir sound like? Have you exchanged fishing stories with Peter? Have you sat with Paul and rejoiced over God's grace?  There is so much I wish I could talk with you about. Darrell, you touched my life and I thank God that I had the honor of calling you friend. I'll see you soon... "I love you, brother."