Monday, July 20, 2009

Letting Go…


On April 1, 2008, cancer stole the life of my mother.
If you have lost a parent, then you know how devastating
it is to lose such a close loved one.

In 2004, I witnessed my closest friend in Florida lose
both of her parents within 5 months of each other.
At the time, I couldn’t fathom the emotional pain and
upheaval she was experiencing. Now, I have an inkling.

I wrote about my relationship
with my mother in a previous post,
so many of you know that it demanded much focus
and prayer to remain loving and kind
despite her increasing needs.
Even though alcoholism marred
our mother/daughter dynamics,
I knew she loved me
and I always wanted to bring her joy.



So, last week when the specialty shampoo
(that came from her bathroom when we closed up her apartment)
coughed up it’s last drops,
it was a poignant moment for me…
like saying “Good-bye” again.

I visited her grave today, on my birthday,
not to be morose,
but because I wanted to take my daughter
to see her Grandmama's headstone.

It was nostalgic to say “Hi Mom, I know
that you’re not here.
But I just came by to say that
I am thinking of you.”

Thank GOD, Mom and I both love JESUS.
We are assured of a reunion in His Heaven.
What hope! What promise!
Some day I want to write a book
about how God’s grace made
it possible for us
to grow closer instead of further apart.

Precious Ones ~
If any family relationships are strained for you right now,
don’t give up or write anyone “off.”
Christ offers enough LOVE for us to reconcile.
As far as it depends on you, through prayer ~
keep your heart soft and open.

As imperfect as families are,
they are one of the greatest gifts
from our Wonderful God.
Please pray for me as I continue
in the “letting go” process.

9 comments:

  1. I'm planning on going to the cemetery tomorrow to visit with my dad. Knowing in my heart that only his body is there. His soul is with my Saviour and I am content knowing that. It was my birthday a few days ago and I feel the void in my life so greatly. With so much going on, I just wish he was here so I could get his advice on all the stuff going on. He was such a wise man and I miss him more and more. I'm sorry for your loss but happy knowing that one day you will be reunited with your mom just as i will be with my dad.

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  2. You have nothing to regret, and much to look forward to. You finished well and loved your mom into the Kingdom of Heaven! You are a great daughter, and a wonderful wife. I am so blessed to have you as my soul mate. Tony

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  3. Good post. And Happy Birthday. I still have my parents and I know that I am blessed that I do. Mom's health is good. But my father's is starting to fail. I go see him as much as I can now while I still can. I give them frequent hugs when I do. Taking advantage of the time while I still can. I know it won't be forever and I am sure it will happen when you least expect it.

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  4. So much I could say but you've said it all. Thank you for sharing a very precious and special part of your life with us.


    Happy Birthday.

    Joy in Jesus,
    Lisa

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  5. A million thanks for these beautiful thoughts. I bless you on your birthday. Our Mom died in September 2008.

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  6. How my heart goes out to those who have lost parents. Only when it happens to you can you appreciate the sense of loss it brings.
    Praise GOD that believers have a Heavenly FATHER who will never die nor forsake them.
    What Love and Faithfulness!
    What Blessing and Comfort!
    Amen.

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  7. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful words with us. God never promised us a quiet journey but a safe and wonderful arrival in Heaven to be with Him forever. I also praise our Lord that He is so loyal and will never forsake us. God bless you, Rose

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  8. Don't know how I missed this post, but it "touched" me as I read it. Especially precious are your husband's comments. You are blessed to be loved and affirmed by a sensitive husband!

    May God strengthen and encourage you to "will and do His good pleasure."

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  9. Yes, Rebecca, I am indeed blessed!
    God's love has flowed to me abundantly through my precious husband of over 30 years.
    He certainly has had his hands full! ;)

    Throughout our marriage, God has been healing the holes in my heart from a difficult chilhood, and my husband's patience and sensitivity have made the healing possible. Thank YOU JESUS.

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