Friday, August 15, 2008

My Heart Is Heavy

I have several things going on right now that I wanted to share about today, but I will post about them at a later time. Up until earlier tonight, I actually had a great day. I took the day off so my girls and I could have a mom and daughter day. We finished all of their school shopping and ended the afternoon with pedicures.

Shortly after we got home, I received a phone call telling me that one of my dearest and most precious friends had passed away last night. Wanda and I have been friends for almost sixteen years. And though she never married or had children of her own, she told me at one time that because of her getting to experience my pregnancy with Morgan along with me, she actually felt like she was a mom to Morgan, too. In fact, up until Morgan was nine years old, she attended every one of Morgan's birthday parties.

At the beginning of this year, her health started to fail her. Unforunately at the relatively young age of 60, she was put into a nursing home. After getting the call tonight, there were so many thoughts and memories that started flashing through my mind. I thought of the countless happy times that she and I shared together. I thought about the day not so long ago when Dirk, the girls, and I went to visit her and about the big smile that she gave us as we walked into her room. I thought about the last conversation that I had with her about a month ago and how she felt that she was getting better and would be leaving the nursing home soon. I thought about how difficult it will be for me on Monday when I attend her memorial and seeing her for the last time here on earth. I thought of the verse that I (just a couple of days ago) encouraged another friend with. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted". Matthew5:4

And though the tears flow down my face as I type this out and as I reflect back on the memories of Wanda that I will cherish forever, I am happy for her. She's in a better place and she's not suffering anymore. She's been healed in heaven and I know that I will get to see her again. We were always there for each other no matter what. She was one of those friends that are hard to find and I will miss her dearly.

10 comments:

Jenn said...

Oh Daphine, I am so sorry to hear about Wanda!! Since I can remember, she has been a part of your life!

It's during those times that we suffer great loss that the Holy Spirit comes down to hold us and comfort us. Let Him hold you tonight and rest in His love and peace dear friend.

Isaiah 66:13
As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem."

Tracie said...

Daph...I am so sorry to hear this. I remember stories that you told of you and Wanda. I will be praying for you as you go to say goodbye to her on monday. Love you lady. God Bless. Stay strong.

Anonymous said...

Daphine, My heart goes out to you and your family. Wanda was the closest friend anyone could ever have. When she would stay at my house we would set up for hours and talk and of course go to work tired but the talks made it worth every minute of sleep lost. There will never be another Lady like her. She was more of a sister than a friend. I know that when she passed the skies opened up and the Angels began to sing and she began her journey to the pearly gates of Heaven. All my Love Belinda

Jill said...

Helloo.....please give us a mascara alert before posts like that. So sweet. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss but smile to learn about what heaven has recently gained! I'll pray that God continues to comfort you during this tough time. God Bless

April said...

Daphine,

I am so very sorry to hear the news of your friends' passing. There really is no way to be prepared for losing someone you hold so dear. Just find comfort in knowing that she is in a much better place now. I trust that God will watch over you and bring you peace during this difficult time. God Bless You today and in the days ahead.

Anonymous said...

Praying for you, dear sister......Melanie

Anonymous said...

I am praying for you. I am sorry to hear about the lost. I know everything is going to be ok. You are a very strong person.

Tonya

Anonymous said...

I am sorry to hear about your friend.
No to many words will give you the comfort but God gave to you the privilege to know her.
Keep her memories alive in your heart.
Brenda

Jessica and Matt said...

Daphine, I'm so sorry. You will get to see her again--and all will be perfect then. Hopefully that will continue to bring you comfort. And knowing that she's already well, and already perfect and happy and all is an amazing thing. I'm so sorry for you, though. I know how difficult it must be for you. :(

Anonymous said...

Daphine,

I had no idea that your friend had passed or that her health was failing. She was lucky to have a friend like you. Everyone should be so lucky to have both you and Dirk in their lives. God puts special people on this earth to take care of the rest of us and you both are some of the chosen ones. God Bless You! I love you both very much.