Hope In The Dark A positive look at life on the edge of eternity. Compiled by Hospice Chaplain, Bart Larson Grace Reflections Foundation 234 W. Main; Westphalia, MO 65085 www.gracereflections.com © Copyright: October 2006, revised: January 2021 Printed by R.R. Donnelley Printing Company Special Thanks I ’d like to give a special word of thanks to the many wonderful people with whom I’ve worked in my 25 years as a hospice chaplain. They are some of the most selfless, dedicated, caring people on the planet. Because we work with the terminally ill, now, more than ever, I realize how short and precious a gift life truly is. I hope this book reflects that truth. I also want to thank Becky Block for her incredible job in designing the layout for this book. It is a work of art in itself. Since I am sometimes my own worst editor, I am very grateful for the friends and family members who helped proof read and give much needed feedback. And, most of all, I thank God. Without wanting to over-spiritualize, I have often felt God’s presence with me, guiding me, partnering with me as I take photographs. I am very aware that I am merely photographing His artwork. There are times when I know that God has gotten me to the right place, at the right time, with the right lighting, with camera in hand. I feel so incredibly blessed and humbled when that happens. I pray these photographs cause you to praise and thank Him too.
A Word About This Photo I once had an elderly patient with brain cancer. She could understand what I was saying, but the cancer had affected her ability to speak. Often, when I would ask her a question, it might take her 30 seconds to answer or she might not respond at all. Trying to carry on a conversation with her was difficult at best, sort of like trying to play one-man-tennis. However, I knew she loved the outdoors, so one day I decided to show her some enlarged photographs I had. I could tell by the expression on her face that she enjoyed them. When I came to the photograph of this tree at the Lake of the Ozarks she reached out and grabbed it. I went to take it away to show her another picture but she only tightened her grip. She must have stared at this photo for at least five minutes. It was as though she left the room and entered into the glory and serenity of this scene. — I pray the images and stories in this book do the same for you.
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