Well, I haven’t been by here in many months. I can’t really offer much in the way of excuses. Although we did just suffer a great loss in October. If you read through past entries, you may notice comments by “Ann.” That was my mother-in-law. I can honestly say I was blessed to have her in my life and loved her dearly, as did everyone that knew her, I think. On October 14, 2008, she went on ahead of us to the home Jesus apparently had ready for her.
From about April, I think, maybe earlier, her health had been on a steady decline. She had been diagnosed the previous year with Pulmonary Fibrosis, and was also battling a severe flare-up of Rheumatoid Arthritis. It is daunting to think of the pain she was living with each day. Did you know that can also attack the lungs? So, between the two, the doctors were hard pressed to figure out what to treat.
I could go on for some time with all the details of the final months leading up to October 14. But none of that really matters anymore. She is in a better place and a better state, now. In spite of how much I miss her – I miss hearing her sweet voice on the phone, I miss her company when she came to visit, I miss her cards and emails and comments here. But no matter how much it hurts for all the missing, I would not call her back here for anything. That would be calling her back to live with her sinful nature (that which we all battle), to live with her physical pain, and to live in this ever frustrating fallen world. How selfish would that be? She’s with her Lord and Savior, now. The one who made her and loves her more than any of us here even know how to do. I can’t even begin to imagine how beautiful is the place He made ready for her homecoming. She’s home. How wonderful is that?
Ann, I love you and I miss you terribly. I couldn’t have asked for a better mother-in-law. I don’t know how much longer God has for me here. But I’ll be looking forward to the day when I get to go home, too. Right after I see Jesus, I’ll be looking for you and expecting a big hug. Save me a place at the banquet table, OK?
A Mom's Journey 