The next day, I nervously took her to the airport.  We stood at the entrance to the security screening area for a long time talking to each other.  Things were normal between us for once.  When we couldn't wait any longer, I told her that I loved her.  She embraced me, only the way a mom can, and told me she loved me too.  As she went through the screening area, she kept looking back.  She had sunglasses on to hide her tears, but I knew she was crying.  She would wave back at me and smile.  She kept getting further and further into the crowd.  Finally, I couldn't see her anymore.  I stood there for a second longer and sighed.  I turned away, going back to my everyday life.

That was the last time I will ever see my mother in this life.  Six weeks later I received a phone call from my uncle telling me that she took her own life.

Life is uncertain.  Many of us have endured pain so terrible that it is simply indescribable.  We should not let these things have power over us any longer, however.  Jesus said in the Gospel today, "Love one another as I have loved you."  And yet, this simple commandment is so hard for me and others.

What if I would have sent my mother away without telling her I loved her?  I am so grateful I had the chance to let my fears subside for a moment and tell her-to send her in peace on her journey. 

I still have a long journey ahead of me to fulfill God's commandment.  I think to myself at least once a week, "Who will write the words of my life?"  I ask you the same question tonight.  I think it is important to not be consumed by fear.  We should tell people how we feel about them, and mean it; for we are given such a short time to walk among each other.

I was given an amazing opportunity to love someone and tell them, despite the fears and apprehensions that existed inside of me.

I hope each of you will have the same opportunity to tell someone you know how much you truly love them.  St. Thomas' is a place where we can all come to be loved.  And that's why I keep coming back.  To love and to be loved.

In God's Love. Amen.