By the time this is written, it will be 33 years that my two children and their dad went to Heaven. I can't believe it's been that long because it's so easy to recall.
I forgot to light my candles for them on the annual candle-lighting day that's held nationally. But lighting a candle one day of the year in remembrance of them seems awfully piddly. I remember Michael, Lisa and Tim --always in my heart. They've not gone so far away, anyway.
Some Bereavement Basics I've learned over the years:
1. God had a Good reason why He allowed what happened to occur. (Details at a later date.)
2. They're more alive now than I am.
3. They know that I love them.
4. God forgives and restores.
5. We're going to be reunited when I transition, too.
6. They're happy and they're "the lucky ones."
I tend to be an "all or nothing" kind of person. I chalk it up to the mix of mostly Greek, Irish and a bit of Italian ancestry my DNA results confirm. In regard to my Christian belief, this tendency has served me well. I figure, God's either perfect . . . or He's not. He's either all loving . . . or He's not. When it comes down to whether my young children and young husband were "cheated" out of anything of importance, I use this quality in my thinking, often.
He's Love Himself! Completely Good! Exuberantly Generous! Of course He restores anything that my loved ones might require to be filled to the brim with Joy! Or He wouldn't be God . . . He can't be both hot and cold in regard to L-O-V-E in all it's wondrous ways.
I'm thankful for all who've crossed my path whose faith has strengthened mine. Who've given me greater insight as to the depth and complexity of this terrible thing called "child bereavement." When we all finally make it through those pearly gates, the rutted roads we've been plodding on will be changed to streets of gold. Joy--that will never tarnish.
Michael, Lisa and Tim--thank you for the joys you gave me and for leading me closer to Jesus. Set a place for me at the table!
See you soon!
Love you,
Mom
5 comments:
Donna, I have had you and your family on my heart. This time of year is such a stark reminder of loss and life....baby Jesus! A life born and given so that we can all be together in Heaven.
You are still a shining example of God's love, grace, and mercy. Your faith has seen you through. Your reasons for being able to endure are also examples of your trusting faith. God bless you always. Michael, Lisa, Tim, Brandon, Ed, so many, many more are celebrating the best birthday for all eternity. I can't wait to join the party! Love to you, friend and sister in Christ.
Donna, "God's either perfect or he's not." You said it. My faith in this truth has sustained me and has brought you through the pain and horror of that accident that took so much from you in your earthly life in one instant. What a gift to know we will be reunited one day. But still, I know you love and miss Michael, Lisa and Tim as you carry them in your heart. May your sweetest of memories flood your being today. Much love always, Linda ♡
D.J. Heath, thank you for speaking Ed's name. It does my heart good. Love to you and dearest Brandon.
Thank you so much, Dale and Linda! What's interesting about celebrating "birth," and "birthdays into Heaven," is that it implies a continuing progression of knowledge gained. Think how much our beloveds have learned! Think how much joy God has enabled them to experience! I miss them terribly, this is certainly true. I cannot let myself "go there" though, because that soon becomes a very dark place for me and it becomes harder to see The Light. Maybe because it's just human nature. When I constantly think of their Divine nature, I'm brought forward and never backward!
Love you both, Donna
Love you! ♡
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