2011 September 22 | Beneath My Heart

Dear Mom,

I miss you so much.

I cannot believe that today marks two years that you have been gone from this earth.

My heart cannot believe it.

So many things have changed. So many things that I could tell you.

But the one thing that stands out most in my mind is…

Your life made a difference in mine.

The Godly example that you set for me to follow in the 38 years that you were my mom is still leading me today.

And the example of faith that you showed in your last months on this earth has touched not only my heart, but many others.

I will never be the same, Mom.

You have set my mind on heavenly things.

You helped to change my perspective on what really matters most in this life, and I am forever grateful.

Mom, as you faced death, you taught us all to look for God’s blessing through the trials we were facing. You taught us not to be bitter or angry, but to TRUST GOD to take care of us.

I am still amazed at how blessed we all felt during such a difficult season. And I am amazed even more by all the blessings that God has sent down on our family even since you have passed away.

And then it dawned on me. Mom… YOU were the BLESSING!

YOU WERE THE BLESSING!!!

Thank you, Mom.

I have a necklace that I got to remind me of you. I wear it all the time.

And a song came out this year called, “Blessings” by Laura Story.

The words are so profound and so true, and I know you would have loved this song.

The pain that I have felt since you have been gone has reminded me that THIS IS NOT MY HOME.

We visited your grave site today.

We introduce your first great grand child to you, Colt Allen Rogers (named after you).

He’s perfect. And you would be so proud of Courtney as a mom.

Here is a picture of Dad, your son, and your grandson holding your great grandson.

Cory, your first grandson, holding Colt, your first great grandson…

We all miss you so much! We talked about how you were “one of a kind”. Cory misses your Sunday afternoon dinners, and your long late night chats. I miss your apple pies and our talks on the phone. Cyndi misses you helping her decorate her house. Blake feels like he let you down those last years you were living. But I know the truth Mom…you were always proud of him. And Mom your prayers were answered. God has healed Blake’s marriage and family. I wish you could see how happy he and Ande are together. God is so good.

And Dad says he misses you every day.

I think you would be proud of us, Mom. We’ve tried to honor God with our lives. And we’ve tried to honor you as well.

We’re just following the example you left us.

How good it is to know that a mother’s love never ends. It never stops giving. I hear your voice all the time, leading me, guiding me, and encouraging me.

Thank you, Mom!

And Mom, I know you heard the good news in heaven last night. :) Adam accepted Jesus as his savior last night! He is so excited, and I know you are too.