Posting

I am going to test out posting these daily inspiration posts on the message board for awhile and see how that works.  But please feel free to browse through my old posts on my blog.. 

Footprints on our hearts

Verse...   “Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

 
 
 
Thought for today...  If God seems distant, who moved?
 
 
 
 
Song...    This is a really great song..  He never lets go of us!
 
 
 
 
 
Poem..  
 
"The mention of my child's name may bring tears to my eyes, but it never fails to bring music to my ears. If you are really my friend, let me hear the beautiful music of his name. It soothes my broken heart and sings to my soul."


 
Footprints on our hearts
 
How very softly


you tiptoed into my world.

Almost silently;

Only a moment you stayed.

But what an imprint

Your footprints have left

On our hearts.

--Author Unknown

A Birth Healing Blessing....

Verse...  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Luke 12:13



Thought for the day...  "Some say you are too painful to remember, I say you are too PRECIOUS to forget!"




Song...  


 
 
 Poem...

A Birth Healing Blessing




Blessed sister, beautiful one

with broken wings.

Your journey is a difficult one

that no mother should have to endure.

Your path is steep, rocky and slippery

and your tender heart is in need of gentle healing.



Breathe deeply and know that you are loved.

You are not alone,

though at times, you will feel like a

desolate island of grief

untouchable

distant.

Close your eyes.

Seek the wisdom of women who have walked this well-worn path before you,

before,

and before,

and before you yourself were born.

These beautiful ones

with eyes like yours

have shared your pain, and

weathered the storms of loss.



You are not alone (breathe in)

You will go on (breathe out)

Your wings will mend (breathe in)

You are loved (breathe out)


~ Mary Burgess

Author, Mending Invisible Wings, a healing journal for mothers following the loss of their baby through late-term miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal death.

Heaven's playground

Verse...  “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of Heaven.” Matthew 19:14




Thought for the day...  God is with you no matter how great the storm you are going through.





Song...  I love this song!  It speaks how I felt when I was going through my losses...  





Bonus video... 




Poem.... 

Heaven's Playground


by BSC

Sitting alone on a crescent moon,

Dipping her toes in the stars,

This tiny little angel,

Nibbling on chocolate bars.

Perched on the edge with her fishing pole,

What can she catch in the sky?

Perhaps a little cherub,

Who's just learning how to fly.

From a star another is swinging,

His wings brushing to and fro,

Wiggling his feathers and pumping his legs,

This swing just goes too slow!

What is that over there?

On the tail of a comet they ride,

It's two more little angels,

Playing on heaven's slide.

The sweet sound of children laughing,

So happy, yet not very loud,

A group of tiny cherubs,

Tumbling about on a fluffy white cloud.

Feathers floating everywhere,

Tiny halos askew on their heads,

Full of vim and vigor,

With nary a thought of their beds.

These precious protectors of the night

Have caught me quite off guard,

As they frolic through the heavens

Safely in God's backyard

Faith

Verse...  “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3



Thought for today...  If God gave you a dream, he will give you a way to fulfill it...



Song...   This has become my life's theme song since losing my babies...  It is a wonderful song..  I hope you ladies enjoy!




Poem...

FAITH




I talked to God about you

last night as I prayed

He said, "I know you loved her too

but I had to take her away"



He told me not to worry

that she was just fine

and for me not to be in such a hurry

because I would hold her again in time



He said, "Your grandparents are here

and they watch over her for you,

so there's no need to cry more tears

because she gets sad when you do,"



"She wanted me to tell you she was proud

to have a mother who loves her so much

and it hurts her to hear you cry so loud

when you are longing for her touch,"



"So be happy and live your life

you will have such a blessing

I know when the time is right.




love mommy-

Sorry....

I have been unable to post on the message boards for the last two days..  I keep getting an account error..  If you are reading this, I hope to get back to posting the daily inspiration posts on Monday.  Im hoping they get whatever glitch is happening figured out and fixed asap! 

As always my thoughts and prayers are with you ladies...  Please enjoy reading some of my older posts until I can get it back up and running on the bump....

Thanks girls!

If only it were September...

If any of you ladies are interested in reading my story about loss and ttc you can find it here at www.graceamber.blogspot.com.  I will warn you that my most recent posts are about being pg after three losses.  The story of losing baby grace was started in May 2009.  My heart goes out to each and everyone of you today..  {{hugs}}


Verse...   "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18



Song...




Poem....

If Only It Were September




You would be here if it were September

Then I would not have sadness to remember

You would be lighting up our lives in so many ways

Just like you did for only six days



I think of the things you and I did not have the chance to do

Such as changing your diaper or giving a coo

Oh, what life would be like if you were still here

There would be no more tears and definitely no fear



I would be singing you a silly song or two

Watching your face and loving you

Your big brother would be giving you a hug and a kiss

To see him with you would have been bliss



All we can do is sit here looking at pictures of you

Struggling to stay here on earth for us two

Leo, you will always be on my mind and in my heart

Constantly questioning why we had to part



You are our precious little baby boy

And will always be bringing us joy

Every month, every day, every hour, every minute

Life would have been great just to have you in it

My dearest family....

Verse....    "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight"  Proverbs 3:5



The Christian Alphabet...

A lthough things are not perfect

B ecause of trial or pain

C ontinue in thanksgiving

D o not begin to blame.



E ven when the times are hard

F ierce winds are bound to blow

G od is forever able

H old on to what you know.



I magine life without His love

J oy would cease to be

K eep thanking

H im for all the things

L ove imparts to thee.



M ove out of "Camp Complaining"

N o weapon that is known

O n earth can yield the power

P raise can do alone.



Q uit looking at the future

R edeem the time at hand

S tart every day with worship

T o "thank" is a command.



U ntil we see Him coming

V ictorious in the sky

W e'll run the race with gratitude

eX alting God most high.



Y es, there will be good times and yes some will be bad, but

Z ion waits in glory, where none are ever sad!
 
 
 
Song...  This isnt done by Hillsong, but the girl has a beautiful voice! 





Poem...

My dearest family

Some things I'd like to say

But first of all to let you know,That I arrived okay

I'm writing this from Heaven, Where I dwell with God above

Where there's no more tears, Or sadness there Is just eternal love

Please do not be unhappy Just because I'm out of site. Remember that I'm with you

Every morning, noon and night

That day I had to leave, When my life on Earth was through

God picked me up and hugged me. And He said I welcome you

It's good to have you back again. You were missed while you were gone

As for your dearest family. They'll be here later on

I need you here so badly As part of My big plan, There's so much that we have to do

To help our mortal man

Then God gave me a list of things, He wished for me to do

And foremost on that list of mine Is to watch and care for you

And I will be beside you Every day and week and year And when you're sad

I'm standing there. To wipe away the tear

And when you lie in bed at night. The days chores put to flight

God and I are closest to you In the middle of the night

When you think of my life on earth, And all those loving years

Because you're only human They are bound to bring you tears

But do not be afraid to cry. It does relieve the pain

Remember there would be no flowers. Unless there was some rain

I wish that I could tell you, Of all that God has planned But if I were to tell you

You wouldn't understand

But one thing for certain, Though my life on Earth is over,I am closer to you now

Than I ever was before

And to my very many friends, Trust God knows what is best

I'm still not far away from you. I'm just beyond the crest

There are rocky roads ahead of you. And many hills to climb

But together we can do it. Taking one day at a time

It was always my philosophy. And I'd like it to be for you too

That as you give unto the World. So the world will give to you

If you can help somebody. Who is in sorrow or in pain

Then you can say to God at night. My day was not in vain

And now I am contented. That my life it was worthwhile

Knowing as I passed along the way. I made somebody smile today

So if you meet somebody. Who is down and feeling low

Just lend a hand to pick him up. As on your way you go

When you are walking Down the street

And you've got me on your mind. I'm walking in your footsteps

Only half a step behind. And when you feel the gentle breeze

Or the wind upon your face

That's me giving you a great big hug. Or just a soft embrace

And when it's time for you to go. From that body to be free.Remember you're not going.You are coming here to me

And I will always love you. From that land way up above

We'll be in touch again soon.

Author Unknown

Heavens Angels...

Verse...  “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-29




Thought for today...   

My strength cometh from the Lord;


and I walk ever so humbly by faith.

Though I am weak in fleshly appearance

by body …and sometimes mind and body -

my spirit is strong. It is rooted deep in the

heavens of faith in that which I cannot see, but

know is there. I have stood in awe at the

representation of God’s love in nature…deep

within forests and atop views of mountains. With

certainty I have seen the simplicity and beauty of

Christ’s love manifested in the heart of

a friend and the laughter of children…as beautiful as an

Easter Lily’s Bloom.



Song.....  






Poem...

Heavens Angels.


Is what they are.

Special as can be.

God gave them to their Mommy's.

For weeks, a month or just days.

Their Mommy's loved them Oh so much.

But with them they couldn't stay.

God needed them with him you see.

So Mommy's Angels flew away.

Though not with us in body.

Our Angels spirits stay.

Close to each Mommy.

To help them through the day.

KISSES AND HUGS!!!!!!

Sent from above.

To their Mommy's far below.

From all of Heavens Angels.

Not with us today.

A child...

Verse...    "Answer me when I call to you, O my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer"  Psalm 4:1




Thought for today...   We choose what attitudes we have right now. And it's a continuing choice. - John Maxwell




Song...   This is a beautiful tribute to a little girl that was stillborn and I LOVE this song.  I hope you ladies enjoy as well....




Poem...

A child was born,


a child has died,

many hearts are suddenly torn,

then many tears, from eyes that cried.



A child is no longer held here,

but in my heart, that feels so empty and alone

A child, I can't wipe away the tear,

the child is my very own.



A child is carried to the heavens above,

held by the Father and His Son,

filling his young life with so much love,

and I know he has not been the only one.



A child has received his reward,

and is no longer in suffering or pain,

and someday I know I will be with the Lord,

and see my child, once again.

Friendship prayer

I would like to dedicate today's post to our dear friend Sam from PgAL who lost her son James shortly after birth.  He was sadly born without an airway.   Please remember her and her family today as they are having James' memorial service today.  



Verse...  "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."  Psalm 139:13-16




Thought for today...    Through The Trial


Sometimes in life it seems,

That we are praying through a wall,

but God is right there with us,

He will never leave us at all,

For it's in life's toughest hours,

When we don't feel like standing tall,

That's when God is closest to us,

He will see us through our trial.






Song... 



A Prayer for you my friends...  Even though most of us have never met I consider you friends.  We all share the common bond of pregnancy loss.  And my heart goes out to each of you!

Friendship Prayer



I got down on my knees today,

And said a prayer for you,

For you are always in my heart,

And I often think of you,



I asked the Lord to send his angels,

To protect my dearest friend,

I prayed that all the joy and happiness,

You have will never end,



I asked the Lord to comfort you,

When you are feeling blue,

And when you have a tear,

He'll wipe away that too,



I asked the Lord to bless our friendship,

So our ways will never part,

For true friends always stick together,

For we're in each others hearts.

Daily Prayers are Heavens Stairs

Verse.....  "The LORD is my light and my salvation- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life- of whom shall I be afraid?"   Psalm 27:1



Blessing for today....  Old Irish Blessing

May the road rise to meet you:


May the wind be always at your back,


The sun shine warm upon your face,


The rain fall soft upon your fields,


And until we meet again


May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.


Author Unknown




Song...








Poem...

Daily Prayers are Heaven's Stairs




The "Stairway" rises "Heaven high"-

The "steps" are dark and steep,

In weariness we climb them

As we stumble, fall and weep...

And many times we falter

Along the "path of prayer"

Wondering if You hear us

And if You really care...

Oh, give us some assurance,

Restore our faith anew,

So we can keep on climbing

The "Stairs of Prayer" to You-

For we are weak and wavering,

Uncertain and unsure,

And only meeting You in prayer

Can help us to endure

All life's trials and troubles

It's sickness, pain and sorrow,

And give us strength and courage

To face and meet tomorrow!



- Unknown

A little room in heaven....

Verse....  "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth."  Psalm 121:1-2





Thought for today....

God Knows




When you are tired and discouraged from fruitless efforts... God knows how hard you have tried.



When you've cried so long and your heart is in anguish... God has counted your tears.



If you feel that your life is on hold and time has passed you by ... God is waiting with you.



When you're lonely and your friends are too busy even for a phone call... God is by your side.



When you think you've tried everything and don't know where to turn... God has a solution.



When nothing makes sense and you are confused or frustrated... God has the answer.



If suddenly your outlook is brighter and you find traces of hope ... God has whispered to you.



When things are going well and you have much to be thankful for... God has blessed you.



When something joyful happens and you are filled with awe... God has smiled upon you.



When you have a purpose to fulfill and a dream to follow... God has opened your eyes and called you by name.



Remember that wherever you are or whatever you are facing... GOD KNOWS.



Pray to the Holy Spirit in asking if there is anyone we need to forgive.



Pray for someone who is difficult for us to love.



May God Bless you and those you love, and keep you safe.




Song....  





Poem....

A Little Room In Heaven




Theres a little room in heaven

with windows all around,

for you my precious baby

to look down on this ground.



From your little room in Heaven,

you're not far at all from me,

for my precious little darling-

you're in my memory.



So my precious little baby-

be happy, and someday you will see,

someone will be holding you,

and that someone will be me.



Momma never will forget you,

with your little eyes so blue,

the way you turned your little head,

and looked me through and through.



So until that house in heaven

has an extra room for me,

I'll keep you locked up in my heart

and in my memory.

Sunday God.....

Verse....    "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows."  2 Corinthians 1:3-5




Thought for today...




Song...   I love this song!  I hope you ladies enjoy.  For those of you who cant listen at work the song is called "What Faith can do" by Kutless...  I encourage you to listen to it when you have the opportunity.. 






Poem...

Sunday God




We try to keep God in church on Sunday morning, maybe Sunday night and the unlikely event of a mid-week service. We do like to have Him around during sickness and, of course, at funerals. However, we don't have time, or room, for Him during work or play because that's the part of our lives we think we can, and should, handle on our own. May God forgive me for ever thinking that there is a time or place where He is not to be FIRST in my life. We should always have time to remember all He has done for us. If you aren't ashamed to do this, please follow the directions. Jesus said, "If you are ashamed of me, I will be ashamed of you before my Father." Yes, I do Love God. He is my source of existence and Savior. He keeps me functioning each and everyday. Without Him, I am nothing. "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13 NIV


Author Unknown

God's boxes

Verse....  "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."   Proverbs 3:5-6



Thought for today...  Where there is faith in God, there is hope. Where there is hope, there is peace. Where there is peace, there is FREEDOM




Song...   This is a fantastic skit and song..  It shows how many things pull us away from God. 






Poem...  

God's Boxes of Love




I have in my hands two boxes

Which God gave me to hold

He said, "Put all your sorrows in the black,

And all your joys in the gold."



I heeded His words, and in the two boxes

Both my joys and sorrows I stored

But though the gold became heavier each day

The black was as light as before



With curiosity, I opened the black

I wanted to find out why

And I saw, in the base of the box, a hole

Which my sorrows had fallen out by



I showed the hole to God, and mused aloud,

"I wonder where my sorrows could be."

He smiled a gentle smile at me.

"My child, they're all here with me."



I asked, "God, why give me the boxes,

Why the gold, and the black with the hole?"

"My child, the gold is for you to count your blessings,

the black is for you to let go."



Author Unknown

Some say.....

erse...   "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."   Isaiah 41:10



Song... 



Poem...

Some say you are the wind,


Some say you fly at night,

But I know the truth,

God holds onto you real tight.



Some say your in the water,

Some say your in the sun,

But I know where you are,

You are safe my little one.



Some say you are a butterfly,

Some say you are our peace,

But I know you are just resting,

You wait from death to be released.



I know one day you'll read this,

Maybe understand my pain,

See I want you back insde me,

So I can do my job again.



I believe God will do this for us,

Join us back together we'll be,

Then you'll be my butterfly,

As you grow, just wait and see.



Then together we will look,

Out at the mountains and the trees,

You'll hold my hand and whisper,

Mum that's where I've always been.



You'll mean you were my spirit,

Your what kept me going and strong,

You'll mean you were the reason,

Why this life will go on.

Angel of my tears

Verse....  "This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him."  1 John 4:9




A video tribute...  This is a tribute a friend of mine did for her twins that were lost way too early.  Warning there are pics of babies born at 18 wks.  If you dont think you can handle it please dont watch. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MGndijGHg4



Song...  This is a new song I found that is absolutely beautiful.  I hope you ladies enjoy as much as I did...





Poem...

Angel of my Tears


How do you love a person

who never got to be,

or try to envision a face

you never got to see?

How do you mourn the death of one

who never got to live.

When there's nothing to feel good about

and nothing to forgive?

I love you, my little baby,

my companion of the night.

Wandering through my lonely hours,

beautiful and bright.

What does it mean to die before

you ever were born,

to live the lovely night of life

and never see the dawn?

Ah! My little baby,

you lived like anyone!

Life's a burst of joy and pain.

And then like yours, it's done.

I love you, my little baby,

just as if you'd lived for years.

No more, no less, I think of you,

the Angel of my tears.

~Author Unknown.

Tears.....

Verse...  "And Jesus said unto them ... , "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to younder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible to you."   Romans 1:17





Song...  







Prayer for today...   

This was posted on a message board I frequent for women who have lost babies/pregnancies. The author lost twin boys at the same gestational age that I lost Grace. This explains everything I feel.. I hope she doesnt mind that I borrowed this.




Dear God, You have given me this experience so that I may grow stronger in my faith and in my compassion for others. I ask that You not leave me alone during my time of most need. I hope You understand that the feelings that I am having of anger, frustration, sadness, grief, confusion; along with the thoughts of any blame towards You, are because I do not fully understand your plans for me, and things did not go as I had hoped. Please help me be still in this moment in my life and not become anxious about the future, because I know that You are already there. Just like I must feel pain while a deep physical wound is healing, help me through the pain that I feel in my heart. I know that if I do not allow myself to fully embrace my pain, the deep puncture in my heart might take a very long time to heal, and it will become a burden to me in years to come. I thank you for allowing me to be attacked, just as Job was attacked, so I may learn from these experiences. I am not afraid because I know You are with me, and this state is only temporary. I must not run away from my unpleasant feelings; as it is through violent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions that new lands are born. So allow me to fully feel the anger and frustration in my heart, and help me release it in healthy ways; I must let this erupt so I can move on. Allow me to release the feelings in my heart and the thoughts in my head when they no longer serve a purpose in my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
 
 
 
 
Poem...
 
Tears


If tears could build a stairway,

and memories a lane,

I'd walk right up to Heaven

and bring you home again.

No farewell words were spoken

no time to say goodbye

you were gone before I knew it,

and only God knows why.

My heart still aches in sadness

and secret tears still flow,

what it meant to lose you,

no one will ever know.

Just for today...

Verse...    This has been said to be the most beautiful prayer in the bible.  Hannah was praying to God after he blessed her with a son after many years of being barren.  I can relate to her. Hannah prayed and said, 'My heart exults in the LORD; my strength is exalted in my God. My mouth derides my enemies, because I rejoice in my victory. There is no Holy One like the LORD, no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God. Talk no more so very proudly, let no arrogance come from your mouth; for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed. The bows of the mighty are broken, but the feeble gird on strength. Those who were full have hired themselves our for bread, but those who were hungry are fat with spoil. The barren has borne seven, but she who has many children is forlorn. The LORD kills and brings to life; he brings down to Sheol and raises up. The LORD makes poor and makes rich; he brings low, he also exalts. He raises up the poor from the dust; he lifts the needy from the ash heap, to make them sit with princes and inherit a seat of honor. For the pillars of the earth are the LORD's, and on them he has set the world. He will guard the feet of his faithful ones, but the wicked shall be cut off in darkness; for not by might does one prevail. The LORD! His adversaries shall be shattered; the Most High will thunder in heaven. The LORD will judge the ends of the earth; he will give strength to his king, and exalt the power of his anointed.    1 Samuel 2:1-10




Song...






A story for today...  Here is a little exerpt from Hannahs story..  It says God had closed her womb.  Her husband married another woman just so he could bear children.  But he still loved Hannah and she prayed to God to give her the child she so dearly desired.  I think that ladies that have gone through loss or ttc troubles can certainly relate to Hannah.  In the end God blessed her with a son and she dedicated him to service to God.  And after she followed through with what she promised she would do God blessed her with other children..

Again we see how Hannah's story mirrors the experiences of modern women. Elkanah really tried to make up for Hannah's loss. He gave her the double portion. Peninnah picked on Hannah, "because LORD had closed her womb." How many times have well meaning Christians provoked modern Hannah's? "Well, dear, if you'd just pray a little more, I'm sure God would give you a child," we sometimes hear. Or, "You just need to clean up that sin in your life, dear." Remember this went on for years. When we know the gist of the story, we may think, "Oh, it was so easy, Hannah just went to the Lord in prayer and her problem was solved." But Hannah had experienced this "year by year".




Hannah's story also reminds us to use discernment when dealing with a problem. In the church it is popular right now to give Satan and sin credit for everything "bad" in our lives. We hear that satang steals this from us, or took away that. We're told we should demand those things back or "storm the gates of hell to take back what he took". Well, not everything we don't like in our life can be laid at the enemy's door. Satan hadn't prevented Hannah from having children. Several times the Bible says, "the LORD closed her womb." Just because we don't like something, doesn't mean its not part of God's "good plan" for our lives. Hannah's infertility lead to the founding of Samuel's ministry. Samuel anointed David. Without Hannah's infertility, her vow and her obedience Samuel wouldn't have been raised in the house of the Lord and wouldn't have anointed David.



Elkanah shows us we also need discernment in dealing with people. He shows what happens when we lose patience with people. "Why do you weep?" he asked, knowing full well why. "Am I not more than enough to you than ten sons?" "Look at everything else you have," might be a modern response. Not only does Elkanah demonstrate self-absorption (did he really think he was better than ten sons?), but a lack of understanding. Since he had sons, he couldn't understand Hannah's grief. He couldn't experience compassion, because he'd never experienced lack. Today, when I watch members of my church, I find compassion most earnestly expressed by those who have overcome drug addictions, homelessness and criminal histories. These are the people who have experienced lack. People like me, who have grown up in the safety and security of the church tend to be less understanding--because we've never gone without spiritually, we tend not to have compassion for those who experience lack.





Poem...

Just For Today


Just for today, I will try to live through the next 24 hours...not expecting to get over my child's death, but learning to live with it...one day at a time

Just for today, I'll remember my child's life, not his death, and bask in the comfort of the treasured days and moments we shared.



Just for today, I will forgive all the family and friends who didn't help or comfort me the way I needed them to. They truly did not know how.



Just for today, I will reach out to comfort a relative or friend of my child. For they are hurting too, and perhaps we can help each other.



Just for today, I will free myself from my self-inflicted burden of guilt. For deep in my heart, I know if there was anything in this world I could have done to save my child from death, I would have done it.



Just for today, I will honor my child's memory by doing something with another child, be it my own, or someone else's, because I know that would make my child proud.



Just for today, I will offer my hand in friendship to other bereaved parents, fo I DO know how they feel.



Just for today, I will smile...no matter how much I hurt on the inside...for maybe if I smile a little, my heart will soften and I will begin to heal.



Just for today, I will allow myself to be happy and enjoy myself, for I know I am not deserting my child by moving on.



Just for today, I will accept that I did NOT die when my child did. My life did go on and I am the ONLY one who can make that life worthwhile again.



~by V.Tushingham, taken from the Bereaved Parents of the USA Tampa Bay Newsletter, Sept 2001.

Precious Little one...

Verse....  "The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made." -- Psalm 145:9




Video...   This clip has been a huge encouragement to me during my losses and ttcal journey...  This is a clip from the movie "Facing the Giants"..




Song..  



Poem... 

Precious Little One


I`m just a precious little one

who didn`t make it there.

I went straight to be with Jesus,

but I`m waiting for you here.

Many dwelling here where I live,

waited years to enter in.

Struggled through a world of sorow,

a world marred with pain and sin.

Thank you for the life you gave me,

it was brief but don`t complain.

I have all Heaven`s Glory,

suffered none of earth`s great pain.

Thank you for the name you gave me.

I`d have loved to bring it fame.

But if I`d lingered in earth`s shadows,

I would have suffered just the same.

So sweet family-don`t you sorrow.

Wipe those tears and chase the gloom.

I went straight to Jesus` arms

from my loving Mother`s womb.

~Author Unknown

The busiest day in heaven....

Verse....   "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."  Psalm 139:23-24  NIV




Video...  



Song... 



Quote for today..  I found this online and thought it was so appropriate for this impending mothers day weekend.

When a baby arrives, be it for a day, a month, a year of more, or perhaps only a sweet flickering moment the fragile spark of a tender soul, the secret swell of a new pregnancy, the goldfish flutter known only to you- you are unmistakably changed...the tiny footprints left behind on your heart bespeak your name as Mother.




Poem...
 
"The Busiest Day In Heaven"




It's the busiest day in Heaven

I'm planning a big surprise

To let you know I love you

And that no one ever dies



Even though your down below

And I am up above

I'm sending you my wishes

And all my angel love



It's really quite exciting

To plan this big event

For lots of gifts will come your way

And all are Heaven sent



First I'll take a bubble bath-

My splashes might cause some rain

But knowing all the fun I'm having

Will help to ease your pain



Next I'll get some pictures

In my halo and gown

So when you get to Heaven

You can show me all around



I have color crayons in Heaven

And I will draw some stars so bright

And place them in the sky today

For you to see tonight



Then Jesus will have story time

And I will sit upon his lap

He'll tell me all about you

Just before I nap



I'll awake full of energy

And play a game or two

Before I finish sending

All my love to you



After snack I'll write a song

For all the birds to sing

And know I've made you happy

With all the joy it brings



At night time I'll be tired

But I'll still hold you tight

My arms will wrap around you

And keep you through the night



And when you finally slumber

I will kneel and pray

Asking God to bless you

On this special Mothers Day



Love,

Your Little Angel

Wings and halos

Verse.... "God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you to grow in his grace until his task within you is finally finished." Phillipians 1:6 LB





Thought for today... God knows all about your sins and your failures, and he loves you anyway. He is ready to forgive all of them if you will just humble yourself and ask him to forgive you.

 
 
Song....

 
 
 
 
 
 
Poem...
 
Wings & Halos






By Suzanne in memory of Joey



Born and lost February 14th 2001







I was so excited when I woke up today



I heard my Mommy was coming to play



I washed my wings and my halo too



Cuz that's what Mommy likes me to do







I went to the place where I knew she'd be



It's where she comes to visit me



She comes for comfort in her despair



Oh Mommy, can't you feel me touching your hair?







I'm by your side all through the night



I never let you out of my sight



I was your baby for only a day



But soon we can be together and play







You know we'll never be apart



You'll never let me leave your heart



Mommy I'm not really in the ground,



lift up your head and look around







The clouds, the birds, the raindrops too



these gifts of life were given to you



Don't cry for me Mommy, I know you're here



Please let me wipe away that tear.







I was sent to you from up above



And you showed me the ultimate love



Instead of giving me all of your years



You freely gave me all of your tears







Remember your relatives, the ones who have died?



They brought me here, I'm by their side



They watch over me and help me to see



just how much you really love me







So don't be unhappy when you come visit me



I'm the angel above you, up in the tree



And when you leave, you'll never be through



You'll always be my Mommy



And I'll always love you

My child

Verse....  "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me holy in his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation." Luke 1:46-50 NIV




Song...  



Poem....

MY CHILD





My darling Child,



How much I love you,



Will you ever know?



I shall never hold you



Close to my bosom,



Only within my heart.



I will never sit at your bedside,



And listen to your tiny breaths,



As you sleep soundly.



I shan’t watch your first steps,



With awe, wonder and pride



And the patter of your tiny feet



Will never be heard.



No one will see your pretty face



Or tiny hands and feet



For God decided



That you were much too special



For this cruel world.



He wanted you to stay



Up above in Heaven



And sing with the angels.



I love you



My angel child.

Plot of weeds

Verse.... "I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand...... Fear not, I will help you." Isaiah 41:13 NKJV



Thought for today.... I must feel worse before I feel better. I hve to feel grief before we can experience joy. We must feel weak in order to feel God's power. (from Life's healing choices sermon)




Song....  



Poem....

This poem was given to me by a friend after I lost Grace at 18 wks. It spoke volumes to me. I feel like God has asked me to work in the "plot of weeds" called helping women who have had m/c. I feel that he has used me to offer support to those women who are hurting the most after a loss. But it is certainly a "plot of weeds" I never wanted to work in.




A Plot of Weeds


As I stood and admired God’s wonderful world as a garden of beautiful plots I said, Father, where would you have me to work? Just assign me some nice spot.

Then he turned my attention to a corner of weeds and, he said “you can tend that for me.” And I said “Oh no, Lord, not that overgrown acre. That’s nothing but briars and weeds. In a rose garden maybe or a lilac lagoon I will labor till life’s race is run. But don’t put me out in some lowly ravine where nobody can see what I’ve done.”


“Why people would laugh Lord, they’ll call me a fool. They’ll say this work cant be of you. I’d much rather work in a vineyard with folks who’ll appreciate all that I do. Lord. I’d work and I’d toll if I had fertile soil. I would plow, I would plant and I’d seed. For I do want to serve in the garden of life, but, Lord, not in an old plot of weeds.”


Then I lifted my eyes to the eyes of my Lord, and the love and compassion was plain. With infinite tenderness, he took me aside. And gently to me he explained, “Child, not all of my garden is level and smooth. Many pieces are rugged and rough. And some must be willing to work without praise and to serve where the going is tough. And I have chosen you for this one special task. And its not just an old plot of weeds; for my people are there in oppression and fear and your efforts there can help fill their needs.”


He said “aren’t you willing to suffer a little bit for me after I suffered so much for you? Would you be so ungrateful that you would recall the work that I’ve asked you to do?” Then he said, “Little One, get your hoe and your plow and go on to your garden of weeds. Don’t worry about people and what they might say. Are you working for them or for me?”


So I made up my mind I would give it my best for I knew when the work had begun; that God would send others to lighten the load and together we would get the job done. And when the last harvest is finally in, if we’ve worked in the sunshine and rain together we’ll stand at the end of the way and we’ll see what our labor gained.


No, a garden of weeds full of thistles and thorns would hardly be anyone’s choice. But the work of the Lord without hope for reward brings contentment and cause to rejoice. So if you are hoeing and plowing today where the ground seems unyielding and bare; Child of God, don’t look back but just keep pushing on if you know he has stationed you there.



And here is the way you can know, day by day, that you’re in the right place when you spot it; you may grow quite weary and tired in God’s way, but you never will grow tired OF it.




By: Mildred Ramsey

Just for today.....

Verse..... "Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass." Psalm 37:5




Thought for today... Think of the things you do not worry about. Perhaps you never worry about whether you will be able to get water out of the faucet in your kitchen, or maybe you do not worry about a tree falling on your house. Now ask yourself why you do not worry about such things. Is it because in the case of running water, it has always been there every time you wanted it, or that a tree has never fallen on your house before? Certainty breeds trust, doesnt it?



We can be just as certain and just as worry free about God's love and protection, and provision because he has never gone back on a single one of his promises. He never changes. Great is His faithfulness. (Billy Graham)





Song......



Poem...

Just For Today



Just for today, I will try to live through the next 24 hours...not expecting to get over my child's death, but learning to live with it...one day at a time

Just for today, I'll remember my child's life, not his death, and bask in the comfort of the treasured days and moments we shared.


Just for today, I will forgive all the family and friends who didn't help or comfort me the way I needed them to. They truly did not know how.


Just for today, I will reach out to comfort a relative or friend of my child. For they are hurting too, and perhaps we can help each other.


Just for today, I will free myself from my self-inflicted burden of guilt. For deep in my heart, I know if there was anything in this world I could have done to save my child from death, I would have done it.

Just for today, I will honor my child's memory by doing something with another child, be it my own, or someone else's, because I know that would make my child proud.


Just for today, I will offer my hand in friendship to other bereaved parents, fo I DO know how they feel.


Just for today, I will smile...no matter how much I hurt on the inside...for maybe if I smile a little, my heart will soften and I will begin to heal.


Just for today, I will allow myself to be happy and enjoy myself, for I know I am not deserting my child by moving on.



Just for today, I will accept that I did NOT die when my child did. My life did go on and I am the ONLY one who can make that life worthwhile again.

The Elephant in the room...

Verse(s) This is one of my favorite passages since losing Grace..... "1.O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. 2.You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3.You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4.Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord. 5.You hem me in--behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. 6.Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. 7.Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8.If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9.If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10.even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11.If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," 12.even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. 13.For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14.I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15.My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, 16.your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." Psalm 139



 
 
 
Song...  
 
 
 
Poem....
 
The Elephant In The Room



There`s an elephant in the room.



It is large and squatting,



so it is hard to get around it.



Yet, we squeeze by with,



"how are you" and "I`m fine..."



and a thousand other forms of trivial chatter.



we talk about everything else



except the elephant in the room.



We all know it`s there.



We are thinking about the elephant as we talk.



It is constantly on our minds.



For you see, it is a very big elephant.



But we do not talk about



the elephant in the room.



Oh, please, somebody say my child`s name



Oh, please, say it again



Oh, please, let`s talk about the elephant in the room.



For if we talk about their death,



perhaps we can talk about their life.



Can I say their name...



and not have you look away?



For if I cannot,



you are leaving me alone...



In a room...



with an elephant.



~Author Unknown

Being Strong...

Verse.... "For where your treasure is your heart will be also." Luke 12:34 NIV







Thought for the day.... Grief is like a long valley, a winding valley where any bend may reveal a totally new landscape.... Not every bend does. Sometimes the suprise is the opposite one; you are presented wtih exactly the same sort of country that you thought you had left behind a mile ago. That is when you wonder whether the valley isnt a circular trench. But it isnt. There are partial recurrences, but the sequence doesnt repeat. (C.S. Lewis)



Song...  
 
 
Poem....  
 
About Being Strong



by Sascha


Many people are convinced

that being strong and brave

means trying to think

and talk about “something else.”


But we know

that being strong and brave

means thinking and talking

about our child

until our grief begins to be bearable.

That is strength.

That is courage.

And only thus can

“being strong and brave”

help us to heal.

Mourners Bill of Rights...

Good morning ladies..  I had something I wanted to share this morning..  Yesterdays church service really moved me.  We were talking about missions and how everyone can do something.  God can use you.  I feel like I am living proof.  In the roughest time in my life he used me to reach out to other women who were going through the same thing that I was..  I am so honored that I have been able to do this..  My pastor said that "God can take your greatest misery and turn it into your greatest ministry". 

After delivering baby Grace at 18 wks I started reaching out to other women...  And continue to do so.  I know that when you are newly going through a loss you may feel angry at God and feel like there is no way he can use you.  For me knowing that something good has come out of losing Grace it brings me a strange sort of comfort.  Like because of her I am able to still reach out to women (over a year later).

I wish you all the peace that surpasses understanding.  I also pray that you let God use you to reach others who are going through a similar situation.   You girls are all in my thoughts and prayers. 


Verse...   "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours."  Mark 11:22-23 NIV



Thought for today...    When you do call for help, God has promised to respond: "When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you." Gods power is available to you right now - its just a choice away. All you have to do is believe and receive.





  
Song....  
 
 
 
 
Poem....
Mourner’s Bill of Rights.” It was written by Alan D. Wolfelt Ph.D. author, educator, grief counselor and director of the Center For Loss and Transition (http://centerforloss.com).



1. You have the right to experience your own unique grief.

No one else will grieve in exactly the same way you do. So, when you turn to others for help, don’t allow them to tell what you should or should not be feeling.



2. You have the right to talk about your grief.



Talking about your grief will help you heal. Seek out others who will allow you to talk as much as you want, as often as you want, about your grief. If at times you don’t feel like talking, you also have the right to be silent.


3. You have the right to feel a multitude of emotions.



Confusion, disorientation, fear, guilt and relief are just a few of the emotions you might feel as part of your grief journey. Others may try to tell you that feeling angry, for example, is wrong. Don’t take these judgmental responses to heart. Instead, find listeners who will accept your feelings without condition.


4. You have the right to be tolerant of your physical and emotional limits.



Your feelings of loss and sadness will probably leave you feeling fatigued. Respect what your body and mind are telling you. Get daily rest. Eat balanced meals. And don’t allow others to push you into doing things you don’t feel ready to do.


5. You have the right to experience “griefbursts.”



Sometimes, out of nowhere, a powerful surge of grief may overcome you. This can be frightening, but is normal and natural. Find someone who understands and will let you talk it out.



6. You have the right to make use of ritual.



The funeral ritual does more than acknowledge the death of someone loved. It helps provide you with the support of caring people. More importantly, the funeral is a way for you to mourn. If others tell you the funeral or other healing rituals such as these are silly or unnecessary, don’t listen.



7. You have the right to embrace your spirituality.



If faith is a part of your life, express it in ways that seem appropriate to you. Allow yourself to be around people who understand and support your religious beliefs. If you feel angry at God, find someone to talk with who won’t be critical of your feelings of hurt and abandonment.



8. You have the right to search for meaning.



You may find yourself asking, “Why did he or she die? Why this way? Why now?” Some of your questions may have answers, but some may not. And watch out for the clichéd responses some people may give you. Comments like, “It was God’s will” or “Think of what you have to be thankful for” are not helpful and you do not have to accept them.



9. You have the right to right to treasure your memories.



Memories are one of the best legacies that exist after the death of someone loved. You will always remember. Instead of ignoring your memories, find others with whom you can share them.


10. You have the right to move toward your grief and heal.



Reconciling your grief will not happen quickly. Remember, grief is a process, not an event. Be patient and tolerant with yourself and avoid people who are impatient and intolerant with you. Neither you nor those around you must forget that the death of someone loved changes your life forever.”

Two faced woman

Verse... "Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your holy spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your Salvation, and uphold me by your generous spirit." Psalm 51:10-12



Thought for today... Just because God works incredible good out of unspeakable tragedies doesnt mean He orchestrated the tragedy. Dont ever assume that God using something means that He caused it or that He needed it to accomplish his purposes. (Wm Paul Young)


Another thought for today.... Whatever is in your past, whatever you have done... And the devil keeps throwing it up in your face (lying, cheating, debt, fear, bad habits, hatred, anger, bitterness, etc.)...whatever it is...You need to know that:

God was standing at the window and He saw the whole thing.He has seen your whole life.... He wants you to know that He loves you and that you are forgiven. He's just wondering how long you will let the devil make a slave of you. The great thing about God is that when you ask for forgiveness; He not only forgives you, but He forgets. It is by God's grace and mercy that we are saved.




Video for today......  





Poem....


The Two-Faced Woman:


A wink, a nod, "I'm fine," I say,



To people as they walk past.



But inside my heart is torn to shreds,



My smile is just a mask.







I'll sit and chat, maybe share a joke,



Or at least I'll really try.



But my genuine friends see through the smoke,



My empty eyes cannot lie.







At home I weep, feel down in despair,



My feelings I cannot hide.



From husband, daughter, baby girl,



I'm afraid they're along for the ride.







Those waves of grief, they still hit hard,



And knock me off my feet.



I'm comforted, though, by their tender touch,



My daughters turn the bitter to sweet.







My babies now have Angel Wings,



In heaven they play and rest.



But in my heart I have their love,



And for that, I'm eternally blessed.







Yes, I'm the two-faced woman,



It's a job that I have to do.



To get on in life without my babies,



Day, week, and whole year through.

The difference

Verse....  "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God ."  Philippians 4:6



 
 
Song....     
 
 
 
Poem... 
 
I got up early one morning and rushed right into the day


I had so much to accomplish that I didnt have time to pray.

Problems just tumbled about mke, and heavier came each task;

Why doesnt God help me? I wondered. He answered "you didnt ask"

I wanted to see joy and beauty but the day toiled on gray and bleak.

I wondered why God didnt show me.

He said "But you didnt seek"

I tried to come into God's presence; I used all my keys at the lock

God gently and lovingly chided

"My child you didnt knock"

I woke up early this morning and paused before entering the day

I had so much to accomplish that I had to take time to pray.



Author Unknown

Dedicated to Amanda and her twin girls...

I would like to dedicate today's post to my dear friend Amanda who's twin girls birthday is today..  Unforutnately their first birthday is being spent in heaven.  Amanda if you are reading this I love you girl, and I am sending giant HUGS to you today!  Your girls are in heaven wreaking havoc with Grace and my other two angel babies. 


Verse...  1.O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. 2.You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.  3.You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.  4.Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord. 5.You hem me in--behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. 6.Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.  7.Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
8.If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9.If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10.even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11.If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," 12.even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. 13.For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14.I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15.My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, 16.your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.   Psalm 139





Song... 



Poem...  This is a poem I wrote for grace's angel birthday.  I thought I would re-use it for Amanda's girls..  I know that she probably feels the same way I did when I wrote this poem...

please do not use without permission


by Cowgirl



My babys first birthday

There will be balloons,

No gifts, no party, or cake

For she is celebrating her birthday

with Jesus this year



Instead of celebrating

we will be grieving

the loss of her precious

little life way too soon



Memories of holding her,

kissing her, still in my head

her footprints will forever be on my heart

We love you and miss you everyday

Rest in peace my sweet baby girl

An angel never dies....

Verse......  "What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: " For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."   Romans 8:31-39


Song.... 



Poem.....  

An Angel Never Dies


Don’t let them say I wasn’t born,

That something stopped my heart

I felt each tender squeeze you gave,

I’ve loved you from the start.



Although my body you can’t hold

It doesn’t mean I’m gone

This world was worthy, not of me

God chose that I move on.



I know the pain that drowns your soul,

What you are forced to face

You have my word, I’ll fill your arms,

Someday we will embrace.



You’ll hear that it was meant to be,

God doesn’t make mistakes

But that wont soften your worst blow,

Or make your heart not ache.



I’m watching over all you do,

Another child you’ll bear

Believe me when I say to you,

That I am always there.



There will come a time, I promise you,

When you will hold my hand,

Stroke my face and kiss my lips

And then you’ll understand.



Although I’ve never breathed your air,

Or gazed into your eyes

That doesn’t mean I never was,

An Angel never dies.



Author Unknown

Jesus heard you

Verse.....  "Continue praying, keeping alert and always thanking God."  Colossians 4:2



Song of the day...........  


Poem.....


Jesus heard when you prayed last night.


He talked to God about you

Jesus was there when you fought that fight

he is going to bring you through

Jesus knew when you shed those tears,

you did not weep alone

The burdens you thought too heavy to bear,

he made them his very own.



Jesus himself was touched by that trial,

you could not understand

Jesus stood by as you almost fell

and lovingly clasped your hand.



Jesus cared when you bore that pain,

indeed, he bore it too

He felt each pain, each ache in your heart,

because of his love for you.



Corrie Ten Boom

The stairway to heaven...

Verse...   "Come to me all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest"  Matthew 11:28




Song...... 




Poem....

The stairway to Heaven


Your baby has taken

Your baby is in peace now

Do not be mistaken



Heaven has no place

For suffering and pain

Those who suffer

Are the ones that remain



Have no sorrow for your baby

Who is in Heaven above

As we all know

Your baby is happy and loved



The sympathy goes

To those who remain

Those who lost their baby

Will feel much pain



I'm so sorry

About your loss

Stay focused on Jesus

And look to the cross



I asked the Lord

To comfort you

And give you strength

To help you through