Mom is determined to finish her race strong. On Sunday, with the help of a small village, she went to church–prayed and praised–and was exhausted to the marrow of her bones–resulting in a deep slack-jawed sleep {I won’t post pictures}. A necessary sleep, because children and grandchildren would be visiting and she was determined to enjoy their company–their zest for life.
This spit-fire granddaughter mastered the Tokyo drift on Mom’s walker, but, like the antics and joie de vivre of all the grandchildren, it makes Mom smile and brings out her competitive nature to not only win, but finish strong–she won’t give up the fight.
After a day of praising, racing, visiting and napping she slurred, “I’m tired…so tired…like I’ve never felt before…Lisa, I just can’t describe it.” I knew from reading “Gone From My Sight” this heaviness was part of her passing.
“Mom, I know you’re tired,” I reassured, “and every day you’ll get more worn, and your body will get weaker.” I paused, knowing this was the moment, the segue to granting permission for her to die…”Mom, we love you so very much…and we know that you’re tired and worn from running the race–you’ve fought the good fight. We want you to know that if you are too tired from the race and want to go to sleep tonight and wake up in the arms of Jesus, we’ll be okay…and in the blink of an eye, we’ll be with you in heaven–all of us…you’ll get to meet your babies and grandbabies that are already there…you won’t be tired anymore”
She didn’t open her eyes, but said very clearly, “I just might do that.” A few minutes later she sleepily added, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Are you sure about that?” I questioned, wondering if we both might pass during the night.”
“Yes,” Mom quipped with that familiar, determined pursing of her lips that meant: I’m not leaving yet. She’s not ready to finish the race yet..even with the anticipation of the victory crown from the King of heaven.
Paul used running a race as a picture of the Christian life, and challenged us not only to run, but to run to win: “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.”
1 Corinthians 9:24
At Witz' End... 
Love and hugs❤❤
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So glad she could spend time with her church family worshipping the very same, One & only God here that will welcome her to Heaven.
Such a beautiful testimony of faith. Your mom's. Yours. Your family's. And, always God's faithfulness.
Love you, friend, and praying that y'all will continue to cling to that sweet peace from the Holy Spirit throughout this journey.
Much love, Lorraine
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What Lorraine said. With emphasis. Oh the love I have for you guys.
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Lisa, this is beautiful but it still breaks my heart…I know I will see her again, but right now, the miles between San Diego and Pella seem like billions. Wish I could hug her one more time…
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What a sweet testimony to both you and your mother
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At a study group yesterday we were pondering a person of wisdom (like Solomon). Yes, my choice was Alma.
Thanks, Lisa, you write so well.
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