Our next door neighbor's 3-year old son drowned in the family swimming pool three weeks ago. Going to the burial and service required every ounce of courage we had. We didn't know what to say to these grieving, devastated parents. Knowing we can no longer look out the window and see little Michael playing in the driveway ever again has been nearly impossible to comprehend. We are trying to find the 'right' way to memorialize Michael, but it is hard to know what to do.
When I feel like life has gotten away from me or things happen that I do not understand - like my friend, Susan, losing her 13-year old daughter to cancer and Michael being lost in a drowning accident - I turn to quilting. This activity requires me to focus and gives me time for reflection. I can create something that may provide some comfort, no matter how small, to people who need it now. I am making a Spiderman quilt for Gregory, our neighbor's remaining son, who is 6, and a lovely batik quilt for Michael's parents.
I feel especially appreciative of my own family and friends right now. When faced with the reality that life can change forever in a matter of minutes, I want to put my proverbial "wagons in a circle." I want to be close to home and make sure that everything is as it should be. With our major exterior construction project, house painting, and other things going on, it's been hard to find quality quiet time with our doggies. Our latest rescue, Boris, a 4-year old Samoyed (pictured here) has helped bring joy into our lives every day. He has an abundance of sparkle and is so much fun to be around. DH walks Boris in the morning and really enjoys his time with him. These little things are helping us soldier through a painful time.
I went skating today mostly to see my best skating buddy and dear friend, Janet, and to get some exercise. I needed to stretch my legs and feel the cold of the rink as I took a breath. Everything felt so clean there. I didn't have a lesson, just skated by myself. I had a pleasurable time; it felt good to feel something positive today.
I have more appreciation than I could ever express for DH. He continues to astound and amaze me at the depth of his sensitivity, compassion, and extraordinary strength, even during this most profoundly sad time. At Michael's burial, he offered to stay to make certain that everything was done properly. While Michael's father said it wasn't necessary, I was so proud of DH for offering; it was such a reflection of the immense heart he has.
In closing, "Thank you, God, for the blessings you have bestowed upon me, for which I am grateful beyond expression. Give me the wisdom, please, to know how to bring some solace to Michael's parents. Help me never let a day go by when I don't show DH the appreciation he deserves for saving this little bird with a broken wing and making a life with her that she never imagined could be."
Onward with Your Grace.
