the bleak, bitter world

Outside, the bleakness awaits. The caustic air. The barren trees. These white flakes escape from the heavens. I’m suffocating.

Within me, the bleakness continues. God, why must I find the sun, only to find white mass piled high on the frozen earth? Why does the world abandon your Child?

I am the fruitful tree standing amidst all of those barren. I patiently wait, praying, hoping. I sense the pain, the hopelessness, the fear, the need for reconciliation. But I cannot maintain. I cannot stand against this bitter cold when I cannot find the sun. I’m losing all power to survive. Save me O Father. Hear my cries and send me the sun. Find me; I need You.

A New Heart

In honor of a great man, a great Christian, a great husband, a great father, and a great grandfather.



Fred Richard Weimer--husband to one, father to seven, grandpa to many. On Friday, December 26, 2006, at the age of 67, Fred finally received his new heart after a long, hard journey.

His forehead caressed with love and kisses, he entered into what would be his final fight. After fighting long and hard, Fred released himself into the loving arms of Jesus Christ and received his new life and liberty in heaven, breaking free from the shackles of his mortal flesh. He was not defeated but found greater life and victory in his death.

Fred -- "One of Peace." A man of peace he most certainly was. He had the Peace of the Father, evidenced by strength, passion, and a willingness to fight against all odds. His steadfast peace in trials and tribulations was witnessed by many and spoke of his deep relationship with Jesus Christ.

Passion, intensity, inspiration, love, heart -- Webster fails to offer adequate words to express all that he was. A day never passed without his strong smile and twinkling eyes full of vivacious life. His passions for life ad for Christ were clearly evident to all those around him. Everywhere he went, the passion within him ignited an irrepressible fire in the hearts of others.

This passion is what we remember and what we know will continue to live on through these days of mourning. As we look to one another with teary eyes, searching for hugs and peace, in our hearts we know he is in no pain. In our hearts, we know he is dancing the streets of heaven, praising his Lord, Savior, and Healer. In our hearts, we know we will share in his joy and in his presence soon.

He left us with one another and with his undying love in our hearts--a love that surpasses time, space, eternity, and circumstance. Let his new heart encourage us all to live our lives at 100% -- with passion, intensity, fire, and love. Let us not live with fear but with determination, strength, and perseverance. That's what he was, and that's what he'll be through us.

With Grandpa, it's always about heart.

May 30, 1914 - December 26, 2008