In Memory of Martha Alsbrook:

I have had to take some time to reflect on our lives together since I lost my Martha on Dec. 31. So many memories in almost 49 years and every minute filled with smiles, tenderness, laughter and most of all, love.

The Bible says when two people are joined together in marriage, they become as one. I believe this as I feel each day that I only have half the heartbeats and breaths now than I did when she was here in body.

I wrote memorials for my parents and it seemed to ease the pain. As hard as it may seem to those that know me, I have been at a complete loss of words to put into writing the loss of my breath; my sunshine; my reason for existing; my love, Martha.

John 11:5 says, “Now Jesus loved Martha.” I read the Bible each night and every time that passage comes around, I always read it to her. I know Jesus loves us all, but this passage was special to us.

I was overwhelmed by the visitation at Lawrence Funeral Home on Jan. 4. Friends from church, from All-Lock, from Gulf Shores, classmates, friends of Teresa’s and Pamela’s, and of course, Family. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to each of you. I can’t begin to tell you what the outpouring of caring meant to me and my family. I won’t mention names for fear of omitting someone. God and Martha know all who were there and that is the important thing.

I do want to thank Sister-in-law Sue Williams for making Martha look as beautiful as she always looked to me, you could see it was a work of love. Also, I want to thank our friend, Gordon Welch for the beautiful and touching service. You could feel the caring in his words. All who sent flowers, cards and love — I thank you from my heart.

One thought that stands out in my mind is how many people commented that Martha and I had something “Special.” I am glad it was visible to you because it was and is true. It is hard to explain how special our love was and still is in my heart, but it feels so warm and makes me miss her even more if that is possible.

I prayed each night that she would have a good following day. I also prayed that God would show me what I needed to do to make her happy. I wish I could have done more.

As I said before, the words “I love you” seem so simple to express your true feelings for someone so special and so much a part of your life. Just short of 49 years and I can’t remember a serious argument or disagreement between us. Most people will find that hard to believe, but Martha and I know it is true.

I thank God for putting Martha in my life for all those years. Someone said that a loss such as this leaves a tremendous hole in your existence and in order for you to go on that hole or space needs to be filled.

I hope to go on, but there is nothing that can ever fill the loss of Martha. She was so kind, warm, and caring — so very special. I believe now that I have started, that I could write about her forever, but she is in Heaven now and knows my feelings for her that will last forever.

Heaven is a better place now that she is there and God willing, I will join her. I look forward to Heaven now more than ever and joining my special Angel.

I love you sweetheart,

 

Rusty Alsbrook

Selma