“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

St. John 16:33

So often, we spend our days chasing happiness —looking for it in accomplishments, relationships, approval, or fleeting moments of success. We search high and low, only to find that what the world offers always falls short. As we continue our quest of getting and holding on to everything we deserve to be our BEST, let us shift our focus from happiness to JOY. Joy is truly what we deserve as the cherry on top of the well-being we are striving for. The joy our souls truly long for isn’t found out there—it’s already been given. It’s found in the One who conquered death, silenced fear, and declared victory over every hardship we face. It’s a joy that sustains us all in sorrow, strengthens us in weakness, and lifts hung-down heads in storms.

As I fondly remember my beloved sister Becky, her beautiful smile and radiant joy shined the brightest! Becky embodied the peace Christ often spoke of.  In a world marked by the struggles she faced, particularly in her battle with breast cancer, she still radiated a serenity that was both comforting and profound. Her strength in the face of such trials was a reflection of the peace that Christ promised to those who trust in Him.

Though Becky’s journey through life was not free of hardships, she never allowed those struggles to steal her joy. Instead, she became a beacon of light, showing us all that peace can coexist with pain and that love triumphs even in the darkest moments. She believed in the power of good cheer, not because of circumstances, but because of her faith and desire to see us all laughing in the Purple Rain!

As I reflect today on her life and the joy she brought to us, I honor her memory and beautiful smile with a heart full of gratitude and faith, knowing that she has found ultimate Joy! Just as the Omni Hotel Dallas lights up for special occasions, Heaven just might be purple tonight…look for it.

Becky will forever be etched into our hearts as a symbol of grace, strength, love and joy. I love you Baby Girl.

B – eautiful in spirit, even in suffering

E – ver faithful, trusting in God’s promises

C – ourageous in the face of adversity

K – indhearted, always thinking of others before herself

Y – ou will forever be in our hearts, your Joy everlasting