Here's a Friday God-wink courtesy of my dear friend Cindy.
Even though they didn't spend tons of time together, Cindy felt close to Jack. As a member of my small group Bible study for 8 years, she prayed for him faithfully as I grappled with how to best parent this smart, sensitive kid. I think Cindy and Jack were similar in a lot of ways, with big hearts committed to doing what's right. Cindy is one of those special adults who just "got" Jack, you know? I'll never forget the email of encouragement and support she sent him after he'd been shot down by a Sunday School teacher for an answer, that although different than the teacher's, was still correct.
Since the accident Cindy, like many of us, has been wrestling with God, crying out for answers, for comfort, for faith. Like others, Cindy has clearly felt Jack's presence on several occasions, which has helped her to know he is in heaven, and he is more than okay.
Let me share one example with you that Cindy emailed me recently:
"Just now, I was working at home and had the urge to turn on one of the music channels on my T.V. When I heard the lyrics to the song that was playing, my jaw dropped. Your favorite quote is the first line of the song! I have never heard this song before, nor have I even heard of this artist, but this song is from Jack."
I hope you'll give it a listen, as I think there may be wisdom in it for all of us today:
Here is the link
BTW, if you haven't been to my house (now that would be a party!), I need to show you what Jack saw every single morning when he came downstairs for breakfast:
Amazing ~ God's Grace!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful. Anna, there's never been another story that has affected me as much as yours has. Your story - your beyond beautiful son - and your grace and strength -really do help me on a bad day, on a day filled with struggles. You've made many of us count our blessings more than anything. Thank you. xoxo
ReplyDeleteI tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels--a plentiful harvest of new lives. John 12:24
ReplyDeleteThis scripture was going through my mind all day yesterday as I thought about Jack.
I didn't know Jack and I don't know your family but I feel like I do through your writing. You have a way with words that just sort of put us all "right there". Sorry, don't have any other way to explain it. I think that is why your readers feel such a connection and carry the heartbreak as well.
When I think about the loss of my daughter, the loss of your Jack and other similar tragedies I sometimes do have to step back and try to see things from an eternal perspective. That the whole reason were created was to worship and have fellowship with God. That this life on earth is temporary and that our real home is heaven, in the presence of God.
Anna, I know you are aware of the impact that Jack's life is having on so many people. I know you also, as a loving mommy to your only son, would trade all of that to have him back. The thing is your Jack IS a missionary and what great rewards he must be receiving RIGHT NOW!
Much love to you and your family.
A lovely sentiment. As you know - I'm very thingsy - so I have to remind myself of this often.
ReplyDeleteso powerful, I loved the song, I'm going to have to try and buy this. Thanks for sharing. Stay strong Anna, it's a journey. Mary in NY
ReplyDeleteWow Anna...goosebumps!! And I LOVE that quote..love it!! By the way..have you read the book GodWinks by Squire Rushnell yet? Good one!! xo -Annie
ReplyDeleteOh, I love this! I am a huge believer in "Godwinks" - I'm so glad you're experiencing them all around you.
ReplyDeleteSending love and hugs,
Anna
Anna you have such a way with words. I don't know you or your family, but I fee like I do. I think about you and your family daily. I have struggled a lot the past few years with my faith. Reading your stories about the messages you and your friends and family receive from Jack leave me in tears. My faith is slowly starting to come back. I still have a long way to go, but I wanted to thank you for sharing your journey with us (me). Your story has awakened something in me that I thought was gone.
ReplyDeleteOh, wow. Just...wow...
ReplyDeleteI believe. I TRULY believe in Jack's signs of love. Cherish each and every one of them. As strange as it sounds, I feel like he sends me messages too. Peace this weekend.
ReplyDeleteThank you for soothing my soul.
ReplyDeleteI'll go listen to that song right after dinner.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you won BlogHer VOTY even though it wasn't one I submitted. I can't remember which of yours I submitted, but at least something won.
I know you would rather not have had to write it though.
mm ... I hesitate to ask, but is there any chance at all you would go to NY? That might really be too much for you.
What a great song.......and just like you have to wait to see Jack again, I bet your mama was waiting since the day he was born to feast her eyes on that boy of yours.
ReplyDeleteAmazing. Ache with you as I listen, but I believe with you, too.
ReplyDeleteTears. Lots of them.
LOVE LOVE IT!! "Tonight" won't last for long! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHe is in charge, isn't He? And, puts things before us so that we know that He is there. Blessings to you and to your special friend. xo Diana
ReplyDeletexxoo.
ReplyDeleteLOVE that picture of Jack. Those eyes....Thanks so much for sharing. Keeping you in my prayers this weekend.
ReplyDeleteAnna,
ReplyDeleteWow I don't know what to say.I am still trying to pick my jaw up off of the floor.
Keeping you all in our prayers.
(((Hugs)))
Anne
I've been thinking about your family during today's storms. Apparently, so has everyone on DC Urban Moms. Much love today and every day.
ReplyDeleteAnna, I live in Colorado, but the rest of my family lives in your area. My mom told me about what happened and directed me to your blog. I want you to know that I think about you a lot and pray for you and your family often. Today while I was on the phone with my sister and could hear the storm raging in the background my heart went out to you and another prayer went up that you can have strength and peace and feel of God's love and Jack's love for you. Thank you for the inspiration that you give all of us!
ReplyDeleteSitting here ignoring Moneyball hoping you all are snuggled up together weathering this storm.
ReplyDelete"The best things in life aren't things.
They're laughing. They're crying."
P.S. Your pretty caligraphied wall beats the pants off my truck stop magnet.
xoxox
It's alright. It's alright.
ReplyDeleteWow. Thanks to Cindy for noticing. Thanks Jack for reminding us over and over and over again.
Really sending warm wishes for peace through tonight's storms. You are so loved.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share this God-wink with us. I think of you and Jack so much, even though I don't know you. It's so amazing to witness the sweet relationship you and Jack share!
ReplyDeleteJen G.
My HS yearbook quote was from Antoine de St Exupery's Little Prince, about how the most important things in life must be felt with the heart. Don't know if you've read that book, but it's a quick, beautiful read with some interesting things to say about life, death, love, and how we need each other.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you and wishing you and your family a love filled weekend.
holy heck batgirl!
ReplyDeleteone more comment. I love how you "got" it, long before losing Jack, what the best things in life are. And although I think in some ways that makes losing him more painful, I sometimes think of those who lose a loved one and don't get that until after they are gone, how full of regret that could make someone. It's obvious to all that you knew from the get go to love and enjoy the people in your life, and spent so much time with dear Jack while he was here.
ReplyDeleteif that makes any sense.
For a tiny touch of humor - I recently saw that same quote on the walls of the restroom in my local TJMaxx. It didn't really seem to fit in a store full of nothing but things!!
ReplyDeleteYou're right. So many times I fall victim to things. To thinking if I had more, somehow that would be better. I would be happier. People would like me more. But its not really about the things is it? And it never has been. Perhaps I need that sign in my kitchen to remind me too.
ReplyDeletegreat blog check out mine http://pgaupdate.blogspot.com/
ReplyDelete"I won't leave you alone. Whenever you call me, whenever you need me, I'll be there"
ReplyDeleteThat line is so perfect, so wonderful. it immediately reminded me of one of my favourite scriptures that is the basis of one of my favourite Hymns called "How Firm a Foundation". The scripture is in Isaiah -
Isaiah 41: 10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
I think about you all the time and love these times where Jack and God are speaking to you and giving you those blessings of peace and comfort. I also love that you choose to see them - not everyone in your position would!
Anna... Sending you tons of prayers... I hope you could feel all of our love during yesterday's storms. You and Tim and Margaret were constantly on my heart and in my prayers....
ReplyDeleteSending love and hugs from the other side of town...
He is still with you Anna. No doubt in my mind. Your beautiful boy touching so many lives still. I think about you and your family daily. ~Shanna
ReplyDeleteI love that quote and it doesn't surprise me that it is a part of your life. I want you to know (after your comment) that I thought of Jack as Quinn ate that whip cream. He is present in so many lives.
ReplyDeleteThis was a beautiful post! You and your family are always in my prayers! And Jack, he was and is such a blessing!!! donna :)
ReplyDeleteWow!!!! (love the song too!)
ReplyDeleteAlways in our prayers! xo
Love that! Yes, the best "things" in life certainly aren't things....
ReplyDeleteI have come back and listened to this song a few different times since you posted it and everytime it gives me chills! I am so glad that Jack is giving you all of these Godwinks to help ease your pain and others pain somewhat. Thinking of you Anna.
ReplyDeleteJessica
Just stopping by to say I'm thinking about you and hope you are doing well.
ReplyDeleteSo powerful Anna. I'm continuing to pray and hold you and your family in my heart.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Anna--love the term, "God-wink!" One of the best things in life is... you! xo
ReplyDeleteCouldn't dream up a better sign from God. God is amazing and the truth in His word is real. ((HUGS))
ReplyDeleteWhen i first read your blog, i was amazed at Cindy's hearing your favorite quote, then I saw what is written on your kitchen wall, and then returned later to listen again and realized the name of the song is "I'll be Waiting",
ReplyDeleteBeyond words. I am awed by your family's love. God bless your family.
Peony
I just read your blog for the first time this week and can't stop thinking about you and your family and Jack. I have said prayers for you. Yesterday I was taking my kiddos to Karate during a thunderstorm and was thinking of your post about the angel in the clouds. Then I looked at the truck in front of me and saw a bumper sticker that said "the best things in life aren't things". Jack's message is everywhere.
ReplyDeleteSo amazing. Sitting here laughing and crying. Again.
ReplyDeleteStories like this one take my breath away. I have been in the midst of a crisis of faith myself and Jack legacy gives me hope and hope is faith.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteGoosebumps!
ReplyDelete