Mom passed away this morning. She was 94 years old. It was her time. Her body, worn with age, could no longer carry her spirit.
I’m overwhelmed with a mixture of joy and sorrow. Joy that she’s no longer suffering. Sorrow that she’s gone.
Mom had a heart of gold. Her kindness, tenderness, and unconditional acceptance radiated to everyone who met her.
She lived her life with deep faith, reading her Bible and loving Jesus. If anyone ever asked me if I’d met a saint, I would say, without hesitation, Yes, my mother.
I held her hand in those final moments. And as I gazed at those hands, I saw the hands that once cradled me as a baby, the hands that soothed me through childhood fears, and the hands that guided me with love and wisdom into manhood.
The Bible speaks of holy hands. Her hands were holy hands.
Thank you, Mom, for everything. You lived a life of selfless sacrifice. You gave and gave, without expecting anything in return. Even from your wheelchair in the nursing home, you blessed everyone who came in contact with you. Your servant heart was always at work.
I could see the hope and heart of Jesus in everything you did.
As long as you were alive, I still felt young—because you were old. But now, with you gone, I’ve officially entered the “old” category. But don’t worry, I’m still in the young-old category, not the old-old.
I’ll carry on the fight, living a life inspired by your love, sacrifice, and your example.
Say hello to Dad, and to all the family for me.
Goodbye, Mom.
Scripture
Therefore I want the men (and women) everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing. – 1 Timothy 2:8 (NIV) paraphrased
PS: Mom, The janitor from your nursing home stopped by today. He was visibly moved. He said that every time he came to your room, it brought him so much joy. And he loved the puzzles you had hanging on the wall—they reminded him of peace and happiness. You touched so many lives, Mom, even the janitor. “Well done.”
From the Editor
I am sad to know your loss and hopeful because of the joy you have in knowing your mom. Stephen, you shared with me many times how you love and respect your mom. I am grateful to her for raising a beautiful family and the testimony of her unwavering faith.