We buried Steven today, in the rain. The rain, while inconvenient, seemed fitting.
Carla's father, a retired college professor, has the enviable habit of journalling most of the happenings in his life. Below is an excerpt from what he wrote the day Steven died.
... And when we knew the end was near, we clung to each other when we knew it could be of little help. But it was! That closeness and common feeling for that tiny little fellow, and all those who shared prayers -- whether uttered or not, whether with us in Plano or not -- drew us closer together than we have ever been. That tiny boy manifested more love than could be imagined, even though he was here for barely a week, never even saw us, probably never even heard us. But he must have felt us, as each one of us held him close at the end.
So Steven's life, however short, was not wasted. NO! It had more meaning than any of us could have imagined. And as long as any of us live, he will not be forgotten.-- John Whitling Hall, Grandfather
What beautiful, beautiful words... Thank you for sharing them.
ReplyDeleteCarla and Karl -- I have been praying for you all and following Hannah's progress daily. My parents, Mickey and Gay Shirley, would also like to add their deepest sympathy to mine for your unimaginable loss. We will continue to pray for you all and look forward to every report of progress that sweet Hannah is making.
Karl, I know you don't know us, but please know that we are holding you, your father and your family in our prayers as well.
Sincerely,
Erin Shirley Cannon, a friend of Carla's from Noel UMC.
I feel so guilty I have left it to your Mom to update me on wee Hannah. Work has kept me away from the computer. I am so glad to know that the wee one is progressing so and especially to know that you can hold her.
ReplyDeleteCarla your father's words touched my heart. Please also tell Syd that I have the whole family in my prayers. You are very special people and so blessed to have each other.
Sincerely
The Lombardinos in Bossier City