My sister died one year ago today.
She had a very aggressive form of breast cancer: triple negative. I miss her every single day. The only good thing about cancer is that you can say goodbye. My Daddy died from cancer in 1996 so my family knew all too well what to expect when Liz was diagnosed.
And, when she neared the end of her life, our world stopped for six days as we went to the hospital to be by her side.
Together, we cried, laughed and prayed. Just the way she wanted it to be.
It is not only a privilege to be with someone when they are preparing to be with God, it is a spiritual awakening. There is a look on their faces as they see the angels that I can only describe as one of animation.
After seeing this look on both our Daddy and sister, I know in my heart that there are angels. I truly believe in angels.
God sent us another angel.
My little sister recently gave birth to a baby girl who had an original due date on the exact day that my sister passed away. She never dreamed that she would be able to have another child. How wonderful to be witness to the many gifts that God provides.
And, on a day that we mourn, we now also celebrate.
God is so very good.
Thanks for your tribute, Laura, to our lovely Liz. She is truly missed by all of us who still love her.
I know what you mean by that look when someone near death sees the angels or whatever it is they glimpse. I’ll never forget when Liz was somewhat coherent and communicating with all of us that last Monday. All of a sudden she stopped, focused on something beyond my left shoulder, and simply said “Wow!”. The smile and look of utter joy and peace that lit up her face are forever etched in my memory. She wasn’t afraid of whatever was waiting for her–a gift that I hope each of us are fortunate to experience!
And God does always seem to replace one life with another. May all our families experience the joy and happiness of this beautiful baby girl.
You were such a wonderful gift to Liz. I wish you could have had more time together. We love you Pat. You are a blessing to everyone who is lucky enough to know you.