This post is not jewelry-related, but it sure is important to me.
So I thank you for reading.
Last Thursday, my Mum went to be with Jesus.
There are so many things that remind me of her, but I would like to share the things that have made the most impact.
Mum has always accepted what God dealt her with quiet faith. For the last 10 years, her body has been failing. It started out with a couple bad strokes that eventually left her bound to a wheelchair, unable to walk, and unable to use her right hand. Although she could not change her circumstances, my mom taught me that she could change her attitude. She never complained, but was cheerful and would sing amidst her difficulties. Even at the end, when she was unable to speak, unable to move, and on her last days, we heard her humming. She was still praising God.
Through her death, God has reminded me of his goodness. In 1988, when my mom was 38, she was diagnosed with lymphoma of the brain. The doctors gave her 30 days to live. I was 5 years old. At the time, there had only been 15 cases of it in the US, so treatment was pretty much experimental. But God healed her and gave her back to us. She was able to go on and raise 3 kids, work for 6 years as a medical interpreter, and serve many years in the church.
When she was diagnosed in ‘88, Mum asked God for 20 more years to live so that she could watch her kids grow up. God granted that wish. It was no coincidence that after 20 cancer-free years, her health started declining. She started having strokes, which slowly handicapped her until she was unable to walk.
One month ago, my mom was again diagnosed with lymphoma of the brain. And one month later she went to be with Jesus. It is no coincidence to me that the Lord took her away exactly 30 days later this time. It is not cruel; rather, it makes me reflect on His goodness in healing her and giving her more time when she asked for it 30 years ago. She had a full life, and just as God has promised her, he allowed her to see her kids grow up. I should add that my dad’s dedication and support of my mom was so vital during this time.
In her final days, we would gather around her bed and sing old hymns to her. It Is Well With My Soul was one I sang to her often, and was one of the songs we sang in her final moments. The hymn reminds me of how she viewed life. And even though she is gone, the song has stayed in my heart:
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well, with my soul
5 comments
Thanks Esther for sharing a little of your moms light with us. I definitely could stand to learn from how your mother lived life. She sounds like an incredible soul.
I am so blessed to be your auntie, Esther. Many thanks for your hearty sharing.
Esther, thank you for sharing this. I can sense your mom’s faith and strength in your reflections. It encourages me. Sending love to you and your fam.
Thank you for this story of faith, gratitude, and God’s goodness
Esther, thanks for sharing. What a testimony of her faith and hope in not only a spiritual healing but a physically permanent one as well. To think, she shared her first Passover, Good Friday, and Easter with Jesus today!! There’s no need to approve this as a comment, I just wanted to say thanks and we’re praying for you guys.