In June of this past year the pastor of my parent's church died suddenly of a brain aneurysm. It was a real struggle for that small and very close knit community. At the time, Kelly, my niece, explained to her two children how it was okay to be sad. Everyone was sad and everyone questioned why something like that had to happen to such a wonderful and loving man. My great-niece replied simply, "I know it is okay to be a little sad, but after all, isn't heaven our ultimate goal?" Well...yes it is and she realized that goal this past Sunday evening when she went home to be with The Lord and her pastor, Clarence:)
On December 23rd, our sweet Lauren, 13 years young died from apparent complications from asthma. Her amazing blue eyes could literally light up a room, but it was her sweet and giving spirit that stood out most of all. She was the most unselfish little girl that will probably ever cross my path. If she had something that anyone needed or even simply wanted, she would willingly offer it up. In life she touched so many others and even in death she gave a better life to others through organ donation.
As unfair as all of this seems in my head, in my heart I know she is at peace safe in the arms of Jesus right now. Lauren will be missed by all of us and not a day will go by that we won't wish we could see her sweet face, but one day we will. One day we will enjoy that beautiful smile and those eyes that seemingly were the window to her soul. We are thankful for 13 years but saddened that 13 years went by so quickly.
Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers this past week. Although we will never get "over" our loss, my family has begun the long journey of healing from this chapter in our lives. I am so thankful that I have such amazing friends to hold me up when I struggle to stand strong.
