We did something yesterday that we never expected to do. Sure, we know the only certain things for we Americans are death and taxes, and we know the number of our days is already known to God, but seldom are we ready so see someone we love cross over to the other side. And, as morbid as it sounds, I never thought we would see Mom cross over before my dad. Dad has been sick for some time. Elaine and I are sitting at the kitchen table right now at 6:50am, and for us this is all too surreal.
Everyone deals with death. Every family has their own dynamic in dealing with such things, and the Wikes are no exception. As is often true, Mom was the glue that held so much together. We children now have a job to do. As a pastor, I have walked many times through such situations with other families. I know the right things to say. I know the right passages of scripture to use. But I had never been in these shoes before. This situation will forever change my perspective on this ministry.
But this is not about me. This is about Mom. I have tried to be the glue … The middle child in me comes out, just like in mom. But soon I will be able to stop juggling all of the balls and just grieve. That that is natural and okay. And to Latha Janet Hooper Wike, whom I will always love, I take great confidence in knowing that I WILL see you on the other side. Until then, I will miss you terribly, Mom. I love you!!
The Random Thinker 
Very well written David. Take all the time you need to grieve for your Mom but find peace knowing you will see her again. I have always looked forward to our Hembree reunions because I knew she would be there, always eager to help out in any way she could but making sure Don was taken care of first. I have some great reunion pictures that I will gladly share with you and your sisters whenever you’re ready. We all loved her and are deeply saddened by her death. You ALL will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers! Love, cousin Penney.
Penney said the way all the Hembree cousins feel so well. We grieve with you all. Please keep Uncle Ernie in your prayers. He has pneumonia and is having a PET scan this morning. Aunt Edna is having back problems and when I talked to her she said they were so sorry that they couldn’t come.