June 1, 2006

Good morning! Today is a day of mixed emotions for me - 6 years ago this morning my dad died. It's incredible the power of the subconscious to replay events and memories all night long, when you try to just go to sleep! What I have found is that everyone has a story - either personal or a friend that is hurting. I would like to tell you just a few verses that I go over & over again in my mind that give me peace & comfort. I hope that they will help you when you need them. I overheard Camden telling our neighbor, "My grandpa got smashed and then he GOT to touch God's hand." I just had to smile. First of all where he got the idea smashed is beyond me - he wasn't the least concerned with that description - he loves trauma in his stories (Buzz Lightyear, Rescue Heroes, etc.), but then to use the verb "GOT" just struck me. I couldn't figure out where he got that image either, then realized that there is a song that he listens to of my dad's voice on a recording singing, "...but just think of stepping on shore & finding it heaven...of touching a hand and finding it God's." This just shows how much these little children absorb without us telling them. Those we lose GET so much that we can only dream of! Here are a few verses that you may be able to use that have helped me through the loss of my parents:

Psalm 116 You, O Lord, have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears (I love that line!), my feet from stumbling. When I was in great need, he saved me. Vs. 7: Be at rest once more, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you.

Psalm 18: 16 He reached down from on high and took hold of my; he drew me out of deep waters... vs 18: but the Lord was my support...He rescued me because he delighted in me.
There are just too many to put here, but if you'd like some more of my favorite verses & songs, just let me know!

My mom gave me a devotional called Streams in the Desert. This is the most comforting daily book of thoughts & prayers for anyone experiencing grief or hard experiences to deal with. I try to always have a copy at the store if you would like to see it to use for yourself or as a gift. I hope you are able to take time to sit alone to read & reflect. May you have a beautiful weekend - and a fun month of June! Thank you so much for your business & support! Susan


Work cited:
Cowman, Lettie B., James Reimann, and Charles E. Cowman. Streams in the Desert : 366 Daily Devotional Readings. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1997.