Sad Words

Maurice Sendak, author of Where the Wild Things Are, on his impending death…

“It’s what happens to all of us. We’re all orphans, and all our friends die. It’s the story of life, and it stinks. You go on feeling that you failed. I don’t sit here and say, ‘I’ve got all these books, and isn’t that nice?’ ” Then, inadvertently (and charmingly) morphing into Pierre, the epically indifferent boy he created in 1961 (A Cautionary Tale), he blurts: “Who cares! I don’t care anymore.” more>>>

So sad he is dying an orphan when adoption is available.  Contrast Sendak’s words with J.I Packer’s thoughts below…

“Adoption is a family idea, conceived in terms of love, and viewing God as father. In adoption, God takes us into his family and fellowship – he establishes us as his children and heirs. Closeness, affection and generosity are at the heart of the relationship. To be right with God the Judge is a great thing, but to be loved and cared for by God the Father is a greater” [Knowing God, pp. 206, 207].

On Another Tragic Loss

A portion of a woman’s letter to her newborn 3 lb. daughter named Audrey.

Your sisters were a little nervous when they came, but as they looked you over, God showed them who you were. The peace that had filled the room for the entire day rested on them, and they began to laugh and to talk to you as they would any other new baby. They each held you carefully, and kissed your sweet, clean skin. While they were all gathered around me on the bed, your nurse Candace came to listen to your heart. I asked her to be sensitive because of the girls, and after listening for a few minutes, she told me quietly that you were gone. The girls never knew that they had been present for that moment, and I thank God that He took you that way. There was never anything but peace. We sang over you as God welcomed you into heaven.

Jesus, you have brought us the rain and we praise You for it. We lift up the God that made us strong enough to love our little girl the way she deserved to be loved.  And we trust that You will continue to use her as a vessel of your goodness, of your faithfulness. Lord, you have shown me that when this life is empty, you will fill.  You have walked with us in a way we could never have imagined. What seemed like a cross to bear has now taken the shape of a great blessing which we are honored to have been a part of. Thank you, Lord. You are the light of our lives, now and forever.

To read the full letter, click HERE.

On a Tragic Loss

Tricia Williford shares the unbelievable story of the death of her husband just days ago.  She begins her story this way…

My husband died on the morning of December 23, 2010. The following is my personal account of his final hours, the story I must write. Please be advised, these paragraphs are graphic, detailed, personal, and mine. Read with caution, respect, and care.  These words hold my very heart.

You can read her story HERE.  Be sure to grab some tissues as the story is tragic and sad, yet powerful and hopeful.

Source: Tricia Williford, Final Hours, Teaching Tuck and Ty blog.