him to explain it all, and he made no attempt to. All around us birds filled the trees and shrubs. We drank new wine and ate fresh bread and good cheese. I knew then that he was leaving. Neither of us spoke of it. Sometimes it’s better to just be in the moment. I took the long way home as he leant into the corners and laughed aloud as I broke the speed limit. When we got back, he held me tightly and whispered, “Thank you.” And then, not long afterwards, he was gone. They keep trying to make the people believe that he’s dead. But there are too many of us and there are always more joining the gang. In cities and towns everywhere, the rumour that death has been defeated by love is spreading. Despair is being turned into hope. Fear into joy. There’s nothing easy about it and we’re being targeted everywhere we go. But the thing he said most after that wonderful morning stays with us all. “Be not afraid.” That’s what my friend asked me to do, so I’m trying. I will not be afraid. I have seen the Son of God rise from the tomb. I have seen my friend smile again. I will tell our story until they stop me, and after me, there will be more to take my place. People who know they matter. People who are unafraid to speak his name. People of the Resurrection. 126
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