I met Tamara when I attended a small group through Saddleback Church's college group called Crave. She came by herself to my friend Elizabeth's house. She had just moved from Texas to Irvine and sought a Christian community through Saddleback. I remember her being quite shy at first, but soon she began to open up. The conversation that we had was simple, fun and sweet. Her faith was remarkable and I did not expect to make a new friend that night. She asked that we would pray for her as she sought to make new friends in this new place.
It wasn't until I became Facebook friends (I know...hahaha lame inter-web schtuff) that I heard about her story. Tamara had a inherited chronic terminal disease known as Cystic Fibrosis. Its a disease that makes it extremely hard to breath even doing the most simplest of things. However, upon only running into Tamara a few times, I could see that she did not let this unfortunate disease destroy her attitude or faith. She lived out loud for Christ in a way that inspired many people. She soon became a beloved member of the community at Saddleback church and was well known.
Tamara passed away yesterday due to complications of a double lung transplant. Its not the best thing to find out over the internet. Especially when I had chatted with her at Crave just before I went back to school after my Spring Break. Especially when I found out she got engaged not too long ago. To know that the world has lost such a beautiful soul is a sad thing, but Jesus says to rejoice because the believer is only asleep and they are finally home experiencing the true joy of being in God's presence.
Tamara has been in the back of my mind all day today. During auditorium, we sang the song "Marvelous Light"...these lyrics made me think of Tamara.
"Death has lost its sting...Your breath fills up my lungs, now I'm free, now I'm free!"
You are finally free Tamara. Breathing in the presence of the Almighty. Finally, you are free to worship Him and sing at the top of your lungs in your new heavenly body. You are an inspiration and you truly reflect the goodness and faithfulness of Jesus. Thank you for your presence, kindness and strength. Rest in peace, beautiful girl. You have touched my heart. And many others as well.
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