During Peter's illness, I couldn't find the words to say directly to him, so I resorted to talking to God instead, and found that to be quite satisfactory. Now, I have a hard time talking with God. I don't blame him for Peter's death; tobacco did that. Next to me on the table is a binder filled with four months' worth of prayers asking God to heal Peter, but the final pages are entitled "In Memoriam."
My memories of Peter are beginning to bring more smiles and fewer tears. He certainly left us with a seemingly limitless archive of material to hold onto, in so many different forms: audio, video, photographs, transcripts, articles by him, others about him, interviews, books! When we miss his voice, we can still listen; when we long to see his face, we can still look. His work will endure, and we all can continue to learn from Peter.
Father God, I will certainly miss Peter, but I am glad that his illness was brief and that he did not suffer long. I celebrate the fullness of his life and the love and energy he brought to his work. I am grateful that I have shared my time on earth with a man such as Peter, and I will remember him with true affection. Thank you, Lord, for Peter's life. One day, I will see him again, and perhaps even get to meet him then face to face! Now, he is with you, in your presence and in your peace. Amen.