I get sprayed with rice cereal when Mandy decides she’s done; I have 5 loads of laundry piled on the couch ready to fold; Emma sleeps in when I need to get out the door at 8am; I need to think of something to make for dinner; telemarketers call 5 times a day; I’m finally catching the cold the girls had last week…. Life goes on. I was completely crippled with shock when I heard the news that Annie didn’t make it and I sobbed on my husband’s shoulder with a spatula covered in cake batter dripping in my hand. When my tears were gone, I spent hours in a saddened stupor as I thought about her family and how in the world they were going to go on without her. I was finally able to talk and Jeff and I stayed up late into the night, talking about Annie and all that is precious to us. Annie was gone so suddenly, I couldn’t help but think of my own life and the really important things.
Annie was the kind of person who made everyone she talked to feel blessed. I got to know her better in the last few months and was amazed at how much she genuinely cared about people. She had a tender heart for children, probably because of all that she went through as a child. Her young life wasn’t easy, yet she still gave glory to God. Her puppet shows were great! “Shine” is the best word I can think of to describe Annie. She was kind and loving and very genuine. She was so nice to me after Mandy was born and I know she helped many other new moms in our group with meals, house cleaning, and baby sitting. Annie impacted countless people with her sweet spirit. My sister-in-law, Kelly, wrote about Annie on her blog, as well as my friend, Lindsay, who also knew her.
As I muddle through the reality of never seeing Annie again, never again having a blessed conversation with her, or hearing her laugh, I realize that my life goes on. The mundane tasks and details that can so easily frustrate me are gifts. Each moment I have to enjoy the little things is a gift from God. I see things clearer and the people in my life who I love, seem even dearer. Even if you never met Annie, I hope just knowing about her will remind you of what is really important in your life. I know Annie would love to know that her life brought people closer to Jesus, even people she had never met. I am thankful for all those who prayed for Annie and for all the comments on my blog of encouragement.
4 comments:
Oh, Alysun, you said it so well, and again I have tears in my eyes. I didn't even know her as well as you but I was so heartbroken, weepy, emotional for a couple days....then, like you said, life goes on and I got to thinking how will this change me? What am I going to make of this situation? I am still praying hard for her family, and I'm still so saddened, but I'm really trying to focus on each day. Being kind, like Annie was, being more patient, with my kids, etc, etc.....
I just keep thinking of that song that says, "though the sorrow may last for the night, His joy comes with the morning" Each day is a fresh start. I love that.
So sorry that was long, but I just has to get it out, and I knew you would understand.
I've been "down" the last few weeks because of family situations that I have no control over. Stupid things in comparison. Thanks for the reminder of what's really important! And thanks you for giving us the opportunity to share in praying for you and your friends.
Amazing how much praying has been going on, and how much introspection, we all want to be that kind of light and not lose the precious moments that sometimes seem tedious. Our prayers for her family and you continue also.
Very sad. I heard about this and did not know her..but our small group at Bible study was praying for her. We will continue to pray for her family. Very touching what you wrote. Penny
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