Death cannot sever our connection to those we have lost. The soul is eternal and can never be extinguished. But not only the soul survives the grave. The bonds of love are stronger than death. The lessons that our loved ones taught us —their goodness, their deeds, their wisdom—will remain with us always. They have left a permanent imprint upon our souls that can never be erased. They continue to guide us wherever we go.

Most people think heaven is a far-off place. But perhaps heaven is closer than we think; perhaps our loved ones are with us. Perhaps they are silently watching over us, sheltering us and guiding our steps. I believe that we are surrounded by the loving presence of those we have loved and lost.

May Paul continue to be with you; may he bless you and inspire you to goodness, in death as he did in life.