Tender Moments and Bright Stars

I was able to attend my nephew's funeral in Las Vegas on January 3. My heart goes out to Adam, Elizabeth, and Megan for their loss. It was a nice service with many tender moments. Their Bishop from Ames was able to surprise them and fly in for the funeral. Elizabeth's sister Sarah sang the song Irene (your baby was here) flawlessly. Adam and Elizabeth both spoke of their love for their son, and their trust in their Savior, and His plan of salvation. Although Jack had a short life, I appreciated how his parents truly came to know him and shared personal stories about his best friend in the hospital and how he fulfilled his mission on earth.






















The wind through the cyprus made them sway,
And rolled the clouds back that winter day,
The sun shone through long enough to say,
"Your baby was here, but cannot stay."

For there are more important things to do,
And he must add a gleam to heaven’s hue
To help brighten the pathway for one and all,
For through the darkness, great men fall!

This little spirit, so pleasant and fair,
Returned to the ones who were waiting there.
And when I walk out in the night divine,
I know one of the stars that shine is mine!

He came to the earth just for a while,
Not long enough to see him smile.
For this little baby we loved so much
Was just to precious for a mother’s touch.

Text by Ellen Henry Gardner (adapted)
Music by Rob Gardner