Moving forward; looking back

We leave behind the past as we step across into another year of life.  One did not come with us.  His name was Bill Lambert.  I knew him when he was 4 years old.  Together we braved kindergarden with our terrifying teacher, Mrs Folene.  Bill was a wonderful boy, good natured, tall, handsome and athletic.  He married and lived his life in our small home town, Dayton, Iowa.  I believe Bill farmed.  Life stretches friends apart.  Bill has a twin brother, Bruce, who is left among those who grieve.  Losing a sibling is one of the hardest challenges.  I've lost my brother Bud and two sisters, Nora and Patsy.  How did this happen?  No one can really prepare us.  Our hearts forever remain the hearts of children.  How can life move so quickly, pushing us out of sweet childhood, into that harsh world of aging and death?  I suppose we should all be thankful if we were lucky enough to enjoy a healthy childhood.  Not all children are so fortunate.  Still, the pain of our loss brings tears and aching hearts.  God bless Bill as he makes his way with the angels toward heaven.   God bless his brother Bruce, and his wife and family.  I remember you, Bill.  I will always remember you with a warm thought.