A Farewell to Bennie Allen

Scripture tells us, so eloquently written by Solomon in Ecclesiastes, that everything has a season and a time for every purpose. No one knew that more than Bennie Allen, a master gardener and a bayman. Throughout his long life he has seen many seasons, always acknowledging, witnessing, and appreciating God's wonders in nature and in the many blessings in his life.

Solomon's words came rushing through me yesterday, as my cherished friend, Bennie Allen, went home just before noon.

Benjamin Austin Allen

(December 10, 1917 - October 27, 2009)

Ecclesiastes 3 - To every thing there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heavens: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pull up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to throw away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace . . .

Yesterday was, indeed, a time to die, a time to lose, and a time to weep and mourn; but it was also a time to heal and a time to embrace Elaine, his wife, and others who knew and loved Bennie and are also going through the grieving and healing process.

I know two sure things about Bennie Allen - He knew His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and he is now in His Father's glorious presence, free from his frail earthly body.

Passing from this world is just the beginning of life, not its end. It is the birthing process to eternity. So, this is indeed a bittersweet time. Yes, we will greatly miss our dear friend, Bennie, but we should also celebrate (a time to laugh and a time to dance) his life, comforted by knowing where he is today. And, above all, it's a time to love. Bennie wouldn't want it any other way.

So farewell for now, old friend. Until we meet again.

Pete S