Always in my Heart

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I opened a card from my friend Lillian today.  She gave it to me several months ago and told me to open it when I needed it the most.  I saved it for today.  ❤

I have spent the last few weeks in anticipation.  Anticipation of the anniversary of my Mom’s death. How would it feel?  How would I get through this milestone?  There are so many things that I miss about having my Mom here on earth.  So many things that were absent this past year. Thoughts of heartache and loss that have been brought right back to the surface.  

Grief is a universal process that we all experience when we lose someone that is close to us.  It is a very natural process of life.  I don’t think there is a right or a wrong way to grieve.  Grief has no timetable; it can come and go and varies in duration and intensity.  It can be processed through anger, guilt, sorrow, emptiness or confusion.  Grief can cause us to become more introspective and change our perspective on what we deem most important. 

However we grieve, we can be comforted through the promises in God’s word.  In Ps. 34: 18 the Bible says that “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”  He knows exactly how we feel when we have lost someone.  He is always there and we can be assured that we are not alone in our grief.

Today, on the anniversary of Mom’s death, I choose to focus on the things that are good. I am so grateful for those who have walked beside me this past year.  My husband and each one of my children stepped up and individually helped me get through the process of Mom’s funeral.  This is a precious and heartfelt gift that I will never forget.  Friends, family and church family showed love through cards, notes and acts of kindness.  I am grateful for my wonderful friend Lillian, who had the foresight to know that there would be a day when I would need that card and her beautifully written words inside.

Although I will always miss my Mom, I am grateful for the things that continue to connect me to her every day.  She was an incredible example of love, faith, commitment, strength, hard work and respect – and her legacy will last for generations.

• I love and miss you Mommy  – XOXO