Frustration Turned to Gratitude

It was with great sadness that we learned that Will's uncle, Danny Shay, passed away earlier this week after a year-long battle with leukemia. Will grew up living just minutes from the Shay household and regards Uncle Danny (along with the rest of his 47 nieces and nephews) as the "cool uncle." As Will got older, their relationship only got stronger as their shared interests converged, including memorable discussions about history, law, and eventually service in the United States Air Force.

Will had originally wanted Uncle Danny, who was enlisted in the Air Force, to render his first salute to Will at his commissioning. Uncle Danny couldn't be there because of his cancer treatment, but sent this picture with the whole Shay family saluting instead! Through Will, I also learned to love, respect, and look up to his "cool uncle." Today we attended an emotional service celebrating Uncle Danny's life, which included an Air Force flag ceremony, a bagpiper, a flyover, and a paddle-out on the beach in his honor. 

A couple weeks ago, we learned that Uncle Danny's cancer had spread and his time left with us was running out. He left the hospital to spend his final days in the comfort of his own home surrounded by family and loved ones. As mentioned before, Will and I had grown really frustrated and upset about Will's Air Force start date getting pushed back further and further. Little did we know, this time in limbo allowed us to spend quality time with Uncle Danny during these last two weeks. Our frustration was quickly transformed into gratitude. 

This is just another reminder that even though we may not see it at first, through the grief, the stress, or our own selfishness, God's plans are perfect. It was a true blessing from God to be able to spend this time together. We'll miss you, Uncle Danny.