A Reflection & Prayer of Remembrance

For Joseph Blessing and James Tinashe
Written by Samantha, their daughter and sister—still loving, still remembering.

Today, while my family gathered in tradition,
I walked a quieter path.
Not out of distance—but devotion.
Not out of absence—but intention.

I went to the church.
I lit a candle—not just for myself,
but for everyone my heart still carries.

I whispered the names of two men who shaped my world:
Joseph Blessing, my father—whose wisdom still echoes in my soul.
James Tinashe, my brother—whose laughter still dances in my memory.

I asked God to hold you both in peace.
To surround you with light where the pain can no longer touch.
To remind you that I am still here,
still fighting, still loving,
and still carrying your names forward
as symbols of strength, endurance, and faith.

I walked by the river,
because sometimes, prayer needs no words—
only footsteps that say: I remember. I honour. I am healing.

And though I couldn’t be part of the family thanksgiving today,
I gave thanks in my own way:
For the love we had,
For the lessons you left,
And for the quiet presence I still feel,
every time I close my eyes.

✨ Prayer

Dear Lord,
Thank You for my father, Joseph Blessing,
And my brother, James Tinashe.
Let their souls rest in Your eternal embrace.
Let peace be their breath and joy be their song.
And let me walk this life knowing they are with You—and with me.

In every candle I light,
In every prayer I whisper,
In every river I walk beside—
Let their names be lifted
and their love be remembered.

Amen.