We shared the name, Dorothy, although
Everyone called her "Dottie." And we shared grandkids. She was the "other" grandma. We shared a room when we Connected at Amish country and Explored the back roads and our Favorite shops. And we shared the same love for Jesus. We were soul sisters. My daughter took Dottie to Costco last Friday and, today, three days later, she's Gone, struck down by a stroke. I'm so glad my son-in-law was With her when Jesus whispered, "Dottie, it's time to go Home." Now I share grief with her 5 sons and Their families who so faithfully tended To their mother's needs. They were amazing. I look back at Dottie's fortitude and Faith during widowhood and difficult Physical afflictions. One of her sons said she was "tough." (She needed to be, to raise 5 boys. :-)) And I look forward to sharing glory, upon Glory, upon glory with my friend who Shares my name. And who needs a special day?
Missy and Rachie are my treasures and a Reason to celebrate 365 days a year. I love you girls, and I'm glad you have never Stopped calling me Momma. (For my friend who is a mom to a very special little one.)
While I was out of town I visited a church for The first time, and I noticed a family in The row in front of me. Five children were sitting politely with Their mom on one end and their dad On the other. I soon realized that one little guy wearing Glasses was a special child. He had "Downs." During the service he walked to the End of the row, crawled up into His dad's lap and squeezed his Neck tightly with delight. I could spy his sweet smile. The two clung together for a long time. Then the boy worked his way to his Mother, hugging one of his sisters as he Slipped by in front of her. The teenager hugged him back. Finally, snuggled in his mom's arms, the Two of them were encased in joy. Not a word was spoken. But I witnessed acceptance, Gratitude, Gentleness and Hope. While I listened to the pastor's Sermon I observed another, the Quiet devotion of a family skilled and Schooled in love. In their school year days it was
Difficult to wake up my girls. I often sang "Reveille" to them, Loudly. "You've got to get up. You've got to get up. You've got to get up this morning." They detested the song. I believe they got out of bed just to Stop my singing. My daughter still likes a quiet start to Her day. I discovered that when I spend the Night at her house, my morning Cheerfulness annoys her. And now she has a verse to back her up, One I had overlooked. My friend, Jenny, shared it on Facebook this Morning: "He who blesses his friend (daughter) with a Loud voice early in the morning, It will be Reckoned a curse to him." * Oops! My girls and I memorized lots of Bible Verses while they were growing up. Missy probably wishes I hadn't Skipped this one. *Proverbs 27:14 It was 34 years ago that we
Packed Rachel's belongings into The car. We drove to the University of Toledo and I came back home without Her, my heart aching and breaking. Now, it's her turn. She and Kevin will be transporting Micah to Cedarville. I know what my kids will be feeling when They drive back home, and my heart already Hurts with theirs. May they embrace the tears and be grateful for The love that caused them.
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Dorothy Kalb Hsu Seitzinger
Writing poetry has helped me process and express my sorrows and joys, my concerns and blessings. "Life is hard, but God is good!" Archives
December 2020
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