First and foremost, I want to thank all of you for the prayers that went up for our friends this week. It was a tough week. Seeing Jaylee's grave every time I leave home and come back just hurts so much, I can't even look in that direction. Her parents are such strong and Godly people, we found them comforting us as we stood beside her little white and pink casket. She looked just like an angel, sleeping peacefully, with her teddy bear and other stuffed animals surrounding her. A little cross necklace she wore, reminded me of the meaning of life...and death. Being active in church from my early years, and going to so many funerals, I know that death is just as much a part of life as birth. It's the in between that matters the most. In two years, this little angel had a serious mission that she was sent here to do, and when it was completed...she went home to be with her maker. Her parents adopted her and made every day of her life special and loved. She made them stronger through her weakness. I understand that concept on a personal level. I admire them for their strength. People tell me regularly how much they admire me as a mother of a special needs child. I thank them for their words, and if we can somehow help touch others, that is a blessing. But the truth is, I didn't choose this life. Jaylee's family chose her. They chose to take this little girl and give her all the love they had, made every single day of her life as happy as possible. These are the ones to be admired. This couple stood in the midst of their pain and told us that they wanted to help with Stephen, any way they could, that it was important that his father and I not lose eachother in the stress this life brings. Jaylee's mom told me that she'd worked with special needs children for years, and always had sympathy from the outside looking in, but now that she has experienced it, she knows how difficult it really is. How draining it is. Although rewarding, it's among the hardest jobs on earth. When Stephen had heart surgery at 21 days old, I saw in the NICU, two babies with no one sitting by there side. I asked a nurse about it, and she said that I'd be amazed how many moms leave the hospital and never come back after they find out their baby was born with severe problems. I don't judge them, I understand how difficult it is. Thank God for people like this family. Heaven's rewards await them. ~
12 comments:
As hard as it may be to believe, I can see the possiblity that some mothers could not handle the position you find yourself in. Especially those with little to no support system. How sad. And how sad for Jaylee's parents. There were obviously very special people to adopt a special needs child. And how lucky for Jaylee. :(
SloMo-Yes, that is so true. Especially if there is no support system. I prayed for a baby for 5 years, and I believe that Stephen was given to me for a reason. Knowing how difficult the job is, I'd never, ever pass judgment on someone for not being able to do it. It's the hardest thing I've ever done.
You are wonderful too Mia, because you have chosen a difficult path. Like you said here, many chose not to return for their children. But, you didn't. You are there every day for Stephen. And, I admire you for that. :-) ---Robbie
Wow Mia, it's so clear to me that the children surrounding you in your life, are angels. No question. Beautiful entry. And very sad to think parents would abandon their newborn babies. Fear - It's a powerful emotion. You are brave and strong to choose this path for yourself. Lord knows it's not easy. xo
Robbie-Thank you for your kind words. You're so sweet :) Like you said in the below comment; This whole sad thing that happened brought reality in and it's been weighing on me. I feel that every day is a blessing and I take too many of those for granted with Stephen.
Free- "Fear - It's a powerful emotion" <~ That is so true and I am scared of everything, it seems. I don't know how brave I naturally am, but there is no doubt that Stephen has made me realize I am stronger that I once thought I was. It helps to have friends like y'all too :)
I just can't help myself, Mia. This whole idea of babies in caskets is just WRONG. They should have a long, healthy, happy lives. It's a hard concept for me to grasp. I tear up just thinking about it.
God bless you and Jaylee's parents, Mia.
Bridgette-I know, it's impossible to fathom. My grandmother had to go through it 4 times. I just don't see how she endured it. Times like this make me realize how unfair life is. It just doesn't make sense...
My thoughts and prayers to little Jaylee and her parents. I'm so sorry Mia, please extend my condolances to her parents.
(((To Jaylee's family and friends)))
Love, Penny
Penny-thanks so much. You are so sweet. I will do that for you. Thanks again for the thoughts and prayers. I know they must feel the love that so many people have sent their way.
You mentioned it before, but I totally forgot that Jaylee's parents adopted her in spite of her health challenges. When I hear stories like that, my faith in humankind is renewed.
Though you didn't choose your current situation, it doesn't make your daily accomplishments with Stephen any less significant. You're an everyday hero Mia, not just to Stephen and your family but to other people like us. =P
Muse-Awww, what a sweet thing to say. Now I have a lump in my throat..but it's the good kind. I'm so grateful for all of the encouragement I receive from you guys!!
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