“Thou wilt make known to me the path of life; In Thy presence is fulness of joy; In Thy right hand are pleasures forever.” Psalm 16:11, NASB
Vivacious and strong, Mom touched numerous people during her 81 years. I already miss her—grieving my loss in quiet moments—yet I wouldn’t bring her back from the Lord’s presence for anything. This past Saturday morning, she passed from this life into the everlasting arms of her Savior. While those of us left behind feel tears dampen our cheeks, Mom is rejoicing and singing and dancing.
Because of JESUS. Mom’s faith in Christ, which secured her salvation, has now become sight.
God entrusted my mom with multiple talents, and she shared beauty in various ways. Watercolor paintings, needlework as well as crochet, home decorating, sewing, and gardening—her abilities impressed and blessed many.
Now I’m left with the memories … memories to cherish and learn from.
Mom taught me to be there for family. I remember her racing over curvy roads in the dark morning hours to watch our eldest son when I gasped in labor with our second son. I remember her being there to watch our children every time I delivered another, and I remember her willingness to help whenever, wherever, however (except she wasn’t too fond of doing dishes at our home 🙂 ). Mom appreciated and loved her family, treasuring each of us in her own way.
Mom taught me to give. She stands out as one of the most generous people I’ve ever known, and her freedom in giving challenges me to do the same. She handmade an extraordinary number of gifts, pleased to create something beautiful for another’s enjoyment. She used what God gave her to enrich other people’s lives. As my dad eloquently stated, “Marjorie was a giver.”
Mom taught me to reach out. Some of my best memories contain images of the dinners she and my dad hosted on Sunday afternoons. Gifted with hospitality, she touched many with the same meal prepared over and over and over. We chuckle now about how her menu remained basically the same. Some of the guests did too, becoming our extended family over time. But it wasn’t the food. Mom’s welcoming heart impacted individuals along with our entire church. Because of the way she brought people home for food and fellowship, others in our congregation began to do the same.
Friends, this is difficult for me. I miss Mom. She wasn’t perfect, but she was my mom. I loved her very much, and I’m continuing to learn the lessons her life taught me. I’m treasuring the good she left behind, thanking God for the gift of my mom.
Thank you for sharing some of the lessons learned from your mother. I am sure they are too many to count. As you reflected on your mother’s life, it brings much thanksgiving for my amazing mother and awesome mother-in-law. They are so dear to me and it reminded me to always let them know how much I love and appreciate them. I am praying for you and your family as you walk through this time of mourning. I am so grateful you will see her again!
Dear Dana,
You’re welcome – I’m glad my post inspired sweet thoughts of your mom and mother-in-law. Thank you for commenting and keeping us in prayer. It really means a lot to me. God is faithful!
In Christ’s Love,
Emily
I am sorry for your loss Emily but I know your mom is singing, dancing and surrounded by her loved ones who went before her and enjoying the company of Jesus.
Dear Wanda,
Thank you so much for your kind thoughts. It helps to picture Mom this way. I’m so grateful for what Jesus has done on our behalf so we can have this hope.
In Christ’s love,
Emily
Precious, Emily. You resemble your mom so much!
My mom is also incredible. She is my greatest prayer warrior and my dearest friend.
Dear Jeanne,
Thank you so much. She was very special. And I love that your mom, your dearest friend, fights for you in prayer. Such blessings!
In Christ’s Love,
Emily