Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: Trust and Obey (don't write about the song) (05/21/15)
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TITLE: MY BIRTHDAY PAST & PRESENT | Previous Challenge Entry
By C D Swanson
05/22/15 -
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He only is my rock and my salvation: He is my defense.
Trust in Him at all times: ye people, pour out your heart before Him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.
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My mom had medical issues for ten years and had been on medications to maintain a quality lifestyle. For the most part she did, and thankfully…never had to be hospitalized because of these maladies. Her diabetes was watched closely, as her hypertension, arthritic knees, and heart issues. Yet, you’d never know it. My mom smiled perpetually, gave generously of her time, and offered sage advice. It was never unsolicited, but welcomed by all who would seek her counsel.
When Hurricane Sandy hit Staten Island and wiped out my mom’s entire house, she came to live with me and my husband. She was saddened by the loss of “sentimental items given to her by my dad,” but held tightly to the Lord during those days of tumult.
While Mom was here, I felt the Lord’s presence so strongly. I sensed her situation was a “gift” to me. I truly believed it was a loving act of God having my mother at our home, sharing long days and nights, and having fun despite the circumstances. I knew God had a purpose and plan; I started wondering if perhaps she wasn’t going to be around for much longer. I put the thoughts from my head…and continued trusting in Him as always.
After her home was restored— eight months later—mom returned home. I was sorry to see her leave, but thankful for our time together. It wasn’t long until she was back with us. My sister was to be gone for the duration of summer into the fall, and my mom came back to live with us. Again, I thought…”This is truly a gift from God. I’m spending quality time with mom and relishing the minutes we shared together.”
We laughed watching old movies together, and sitcom comedies…we shopped, ate out. And talked into the wee hours of the morning, it was a great time. My husband loved her too, she was like his second mother, and welcomed her each time she stayed with us. At times, urging her to move in permanently, to which she always responded with, “Thanks, but I love New York…I’ll come back again.”
We spoke about fifteen times a day…calling about shows on, or spoke about God and His divine plan for all of us. Some of our conversations were deep, others frivolous and funny. While other times, just to say hello, thinking of you, I miss you.
About one month ago I sensed my mother declining just by her tone of voice. There was something in her tone; I just knew her time was nearing. I prayed about it hoping I was wrong…but of course, open to His will…Everything is in His hands…after all God is in control at all times. I kept calling her, but sometimes she wouldn’t pick up. She’d be sleeping, or too tired to talk….so out of character for my mom.
On Mother’s day, she was having difficulty breathing and could no longer stand up. Her legs were swollen. The doctor came to her house and suggested an immediate hospital stay to check out what was going on. He reassured her it’d only be for a couple of days and she’d return home and be given stronger medication to help with her issues. She agreed, but insisted on waiting until the day after Mother’s day.
I wished her a Happy Mother’s day. She was laughing again. She said, “I’ll be out of the hospital within three days-then- I’ll be home.”
He only is my rock and my salvation: He is my defense.
Trust in Him at all times: ye people, pour out your heart before Him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.
Again, these scriptures popped into my head…over and over.
My heart cried out—I trust You—I obey and live by Your will alone.
On my birthday, May 13, 2015, my beautiful mother was called home to the Lord. The Lord gave me the best present all those years ago. He gave me the best mother I could ask for.
Mom delivered me May 13th many years ago.
In return—the Lord delivered Mom home May 13th—spiritually connected forever…
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Note: I ache deeply and miss her so much I can hardly breathe. But, I trust in His will, and am so thankful for the years we shared together. And, for giving me the opportunity to share such happy times during her lengthy stay. She was my friend, confidant and most of all…my mom. I know now why He gave me those scriptures, preparing me for what was to come. I felt that my mother was going to leave this earth on my birthday…I don’t know how I knew it, I just did. It is well with my soul. I know she is in heaven and reunited with my dad, and other departed loved ones.
She is at peace looking gorgeous. I will see her again, until then…I’ll hold cherished memories in my heart forever. I love you Mom~
And Jesus said unto him. “Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise…”
Luke 23:43 KJV
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This has touched me on levels you cannot imagine. My prayers of grace and God's mercy to you now and always.
A beautiful tribute to a lovely lady written by a lovely lady.
Blessings...
Wing His Words
Well done.
Patience from the Lord is a rare gift that I know beyond a shadow of doubt that you have in the purest form.
I know your mom is smiling down on you and is patiently waiting for the day to once again laugh and just have fun again with you forever!