Going On Alone

This is likely to be the hardest birthday my brother-in-law, Mike Stevens will ever have. It has only been 25 days since his wife, Alena Stevens went home to be with the Lord. It has been a deeply sad 25 days for all of us, but even more so for Mike, because Alena was the love of his life, his other half, his life partner, and he never wanted their time together to be so short. The were married almost 41 years, and they had built a wonderful life together, and now, he must go on without her. This will be a long transition for Mike, and I just feel so bad for him. It’s such an empty feeling for him. I’m thankful that he has their children, Michelle Miller, Garrett Stevens, and Lacey Killinger to comfort him too. The kids have been staying closely in touch and letting him know that they are there for him. Mike is a good grandpa, and he loves spending time with the kids, Elliott and Maya Stevens, as well as Brooklyn and Jaxon Killinger whenever he can too.

Over recent years, Mike has been helping brothers-in-law, Mike Reed and Chris Hadlock with various projects they have been doing, so they have become good friends. That is such a blessing, because they are always working on something, and Mike can help them with those projects, and that helps too. Mike Reed has been rebuilding and flipping cars, and Mike Stevens has been helping him with those too. It’s almost become a lucrative new business venture for them. They have become good friends. That friendship has been a source of strength for Mike Stevens through these hard days since Alena’s passing.

Mike has always loved golfing, hunting, and working on cars, and I know that these things will help him to stay busy as time goes on. He is very dedicated to the Lord and attends church every Sunday too. That will also be a source of comfort for him in the days ahead. I know that Mike is going to be ok, but right now, his feelings are very raw, as they are with all of the family. There is just no way to lose your other half, and not feel very incomplete for the rest of your life. I know that while Mike will never get over Alena’s passing, he will pick himself up with the help of the family and get on with it, because that is truly all you can do. Today is Mike’s birthday, and while it’s a hard one, I hope there will be some moments of happiness too. Happy birthday Mike. You are in our prayers for peace and comfort. We love you very much.