Thursday, April 18, 2013

"For Nothing is Impossible With God" and a GIVEAWAY for You

I know this week has been dark and hard and maybe a little hopeless feeling. Some of us may be thinking, will the darkness blot out the light? What does the future hold for our children when there is so much evil around us?

I think of Jack's favorite Bible verse, "For nothing is impossible with God." Luke 1:37.  It reminds us of our little boy and his big faith. We have it on the blue ribbon magnets on our cars and in our hearts.

It comes from the story of the virgin birth. How strange it all sounds: a baby would be born to a teenage virgin, of no stature or fortune, and this baby would grow up to take our sins upon himself so that we could have eternal life. Huh? Sounds impossible.

We'd always read it like, "Nothing is impossible for God." If God can pull off a virgin birth, and our salvation, you can see why Jack believed God could do so much in his young life: help him make friends, get a hit in baseball, and live out his big ideas and values in a world that didn't seem to appreciate them all that much.

This verse told Jack that despite the concerns of his days, God had him covered!

A few months after the accident, when the shock started to wear off and the pain seeped into my bones, my heart, even my hair follicles, I started thinking of the verse a little differently. To me, it now meant, "For (even with God) nothing is impossible." Oh dear. Even when you walk with God, things that seemed impossible, are possible, like a safety conscious child dying (DYING!) in a creek on a wet, balmy night in suburbia. Or in a kindergarten classroom. Or at a marathon. Or in a sinkhole.

Any illusion of control I had for my family's safety and future was gone. Holding tightly to my plans and expectations was as fruitless as trying to carry water in my cupped palms while scaling a cliff.

What once seemed impossible within the structure of our simple, fairly predictable lives was indeed possible, and I didn't like it. Not one teeny little bit.

On September 8, 2011 I had to let go of my misconception that if I loved enough,  prayed enough, and worried enough, my family would "be okay." This realization came to our family that day, but I think it comes to all of us at some point or another.

Later, a friend and I talked about Jack's verse. What did it mean to us now? Surely God could have saved Jack. He can do the impossible! Reviving a drowned person is not too difficult a task for God. It should be easy! What is breathing life back into a boy's lungs compared to forming the universe? And if Jack had been revived, having had a near death experience, he and I could have taken our show on the road. We would commit ourselves to speaking out for God, sharing hope of heaven and the beautiful miracle of Jack's survival. Doesn't that sound like a much better plan than leaving Margaret an only/lonely child?

But God didn't do what He surely could do. And I've had to let go of trying to understand why, at least for now. At least for today.

And Jack's verse changed for me, slightly, once again. "For with God nothing is impossible." The task in front of families who have lost children seems impossible.  Truly. To wake up each day. To function. To forgive. To breathe. We can try to do the impossible without God, in our own strength, out of unbelief,  hurt, bitterness or even anger that He has allowed these terrible things to happen in the first place. It is tempting, believe me.

Or we can let go of the control we never had and let Him help us in our current, impossible situation.

And we can trust God to make something beautiful out of something terrible. I don't know how that works, but I think it can and it does. And if I've learned anything, it's that He stays close to the brokenhearted and performs miracles, even if they aren't the ones we would have chosen.

And we can recognize that while we can't control everything, we can do something. We can offer ourselves up, even in the smallest ways, to share the light with others by continuing to care for people, by showing up when things look hopeless, and by doing good in the face of great evil. Not because any of it will guarantee our children's safety, but because it's the right thing to do.

********************

I've been waiting to send a reader a "Jack's Promise" Pendant from Holly Lane Designs. This week it seemed like we might need to remind ourselves "For Nothing is Impossible with God." Tiffany Scott, my favorite jewelry designer, used a Mobius strip, which represents an impossibility that is somehow possible! She also chose it because Jack loved puzzles and brainteasers almost as much as he loved God and Legos. Jack's verse is carved into the silver. My sister wears hers on a silver chain with a small crystal teardrop.  If you would like to enter to win this pendant, just write "Luke 1:37" in the comments. Giveaway closes Monday, April 22 at 10 pm.

Jack's Promise Pendant:

 
My sister's neck.
 
 
 

204 comments:

1 – 200 of 204   Newer›   Newest»
Micaela said...

Luke 1:37 <3

Cassie Bustamante said...

Luke 1:37
i would love to win this to send to my neighbor who lost her daughters in the fire on january 31. it would mean so much coming from you.

Amanda said...

Luke 1:37 as much as I would love this, I know of a woman who lost one of her twin daughters to SIDS and is having such a difficult time grieving her loss and leaning on God. I would love to win this for her

Bitts said...

Luke 1:37

An acquaintance sits next to a hospital bed, waiting for her daughter, whose first birthday is tomorrow, to breathe on her own after nearly drowning in a terrible accident in their home. I would love to give this to her, to remind her that God is with her no matter what lies ahead for their shattered family.

Laura Perry said...

It is beautiful, but I am not the person for whom it is intended. I know in my heart it is going to go to exactly the right place- to someone who desperately needs to hear that message right now.

I just wanted to say how much your writing moves me, and how many people I know you are helping by allowing them to look into the corners of your heart while you grieve and honor your beautiful boy. xo

Susan Snowa said...

Luke 1:37<3

Sybil@PeaceitallTogether said...

You have taken this verse and given it it's context depending on your season. I love that! I think that just shows the applicability of scripture...just one verse can have so much meaning. Jack sounds like he was such a wise boy, with a strong connection to God. :)

Maggie May said...

I don't want it for myself but I hope deeply one of the readers wins it who knows someone who needs it that badly.

Lindsay said...

Luke 1:37

Prayers and love always. XOXO

Lisa said...

I agree with everyone. I hope it goes to a person who really needs it.

mamamarable said...

Luke 1:37 hugs to you. I Love this post. Thank you for sharing.

Anonymous said...

AMEN! And praise God every valley shall be exhalted one day! I will give others a chance to win this beautiful pendant, but I'd love to buy it. Last check, I couldn't find it on her site...I'll try again. I found your tapestry poem you referenced a while back today and sent it to a relative facing cancer. Please know God is using you (and Jack) in mighty ways! Love you!

Erica S. said...

Luke 1:37 Would love to win to pass along to a friend who lost her son in an automobile accident one year ago this month. He was a special young man who loved life and shared his spiritual beliefs freely. He brought a smile to everyone he encountered, and I know his mother would treasure this reminder.

Samantha B. said...

Luke 1:37

Thank you, Anna.

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

Love you Anna!

Callie said...

Luke 1:37

Beautiful.

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37. Beautiful. Blessings.

Unknown said...

i'm so so sorry for your loss. i think about you and your family all the time. you have taught me so much from your bravery and your honesty. thank you for reminding me of the truths (and difficulties) of God's promises for us!

Luke 1.37

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

Lots of love to you.

Meredith Self said...

Luke 1:37 While I imagine that I may wish to pass it on one day, I would want to wear the Jack pendant by my heart every day for now. Reminding me of my service to the infinite and great mystery. Reminding me of my love for a dear, rare and precious Jack who forever changes my life. Reminding me to show up in the circle of life every day all in! Reminding me to love, to trust, to transcend any ideas of possible or impossible and merely to express the great Spirit every moment. Reminding me to be the ring bearer of truth and love. Of course, this ring is already engraved upon my heart. May it bless the wearer with strength and peace!

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

I need God in my life something feirce right now...but I believe with him I can do anything.

Sarah (from Canada) said...

Love your blog Anna - you give me strength through my own tragedy....

Luke 1:37

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37 It will be a helpful reminder as my husband deploys and I am a single mom for a time. I love you Anna and think of your sweet Jack so often.

Nindi said...

Luke 1:37

Jenn Marshall said...

Thank you for sharing so much of you and your Jack. Beautifully written, Anna. Thinking of you. I know this giveaway will mean so much to one of your readers. xo

Colleen said...

Luke 1:37

My "impossible" is not nearly as hard as some others, but for now I would wear this and think of Jack and know that one day, I would share it with the person that needed it next... Love you Anna.

Rebekah J. said...

Luke 1:37

Kaylee said...

Luke 1:37

It's been a rough week for everyone, yes. On Sunday I moved to a new state to be with my fiance, and had to emotionally deal with all of this weeks event mainly by myself. I could use a little more reminders in my life that nothing is really impossible.

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

Thank you.

middle child said...

"or we can let go of the control we never had and let God...."
Perfect.

Rachel said...

Luke 1:37

Thank you for this contest - what a beautiful way to remember Jack.

I've been thinking of you and your family in the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombing and praying that we will all feel the loving comfort of God during this time.

Tamara said...

Anna, I'm a long time lurker who has never commented before. First, let me say thank you, for sharing your stories about your beautiful son with us.

Second, thank you. This post was exactly what I needed to hear today, and I am very grateful to you for writing it.

Mary Ann said...

Luke 1:37. My heart breaks for you and I can't fathom your loss God Bless

Jessica said...

Luke 1:37

Anonymous said...

Down to your hair follicles. Oh, my goodness...

The losses and challenges mentioned in the comments are so serious that saying "Good luck" feels too light, but I hope this brings comfort to someone.



Anonymous said...

What a beautiful post. I find that I look to you and your writing in times of such sadness.

Boston was so tragic and heinous, but it has been wonderful to read about all the nice things that people have done to help Boston (and the nation) heal. It only proves that love does outnumber evil and sometimes we need to be reminded of that.

I love the ring but know that it belongs with someone else, and have no doubt that it will end up where it belongs.

Theresa in Colorado

Erika said...

Luke 1:37

lovely post - thank you for it. it's very comforting to my soul -especially this week...

Anonymous said...

I intended to thank you for your post and the reminder of this verse, and also to 'not pick me' for the necklace and after reading the comments I see I am not alone! I know it will go to just the right person, I just wanted to thank you for the message. And for so many messages you have passed along through your writing.

Big love!

LPB said...

Luke 1:37

I've already shared this verse & Jack's story with my 13 year old daughter, and I would love to be able to give her this to wear everyday.

Lauren B

Kate Coveny Hood said...

Luke 1:37 - I would love to win this for another grieving friend. Much love to you Anna.

Ginna P. said...

Luke 1:37
This post spoke more meaningfully to me than many sermons have in the past few months. The slight shift in perspective and adjustment in understanding... I needed a reminder that I can change my understanding and the world can make sense again. "For Nothing is Impossible with God."

Rach said...

Eloquent and well written, Anna. You captured all of it so well.

Hugs.

Janie said...

uke 1.37

Janie said...

Luke 1.37

Sherri Newman said...

My dear friend, I would like to purchase one...is that possible? I truly appreciate your version of Luke 1:37, as it truly puts the bewilderment of a bereaved parent into words. Thank you so much! Hugs!!!! Sherri

Annabelle said...

Anna, This was the most beautiful and passionate exposition I've heard in a long time. Truly water to my soul. Bless you for sharing your heart and continuing on. You inspire me to continue, when i cannot! on my own. Thank you, and Jack.

Anonymous said...

We had this discussion of letting go of control in our mission 2 motherhood book study Wed. Night. Anna you are making Jacks life - Not only count but magnify it for Gods glory & to pose the hard questions our culture faces today while keeping God in the center. Luke 1:37
Sandie Brown

jenalan said...

Luke 1:37

Beth said...

Luke 1:37

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

mrietveld said...

Luke 1:37

Kim P. said...

Wow Anna! Six little words in that verse and you made me look at those six little words in such a different light. Your writing, the way you see things and can formulate these things into such beautiful, thoughtful words astounds me. I wish I had that gift. I would love this pendant of Jack's but when I started scrolling through the comments I realized so many other people are meant to have it. I love Tiffany's jewelery, and have a few pieces. When I wear them, I will think of Jack. Still sporting his ribbon on my super cool mini van. Love from Purcellville.

Ingrid said...

Luke 1:37

Julie said...

"Luke 1:37"
Thank you for sharing your story, your life with us, you help so many in so many different ways. Jacks faith inspires me...helps me believe...

Julie said...

"Luke 1:37"
Jacks faith gives me hope!

jnh213 said...

Luke 1:37

....and Matthew 5:16, you perfectly display God's command in this verse by still letting your light shine. Never let yourself feel extinguished, you have become a light on the hill, reaching out to so many with your raw honesty.

This pendent would pass through my hands to a mother in our small community whose son is fighting cancer (has been for the past two years). They, like your family, have turned to God for their refuge.

Prayers for you as you continue to walk through this muddied life, not unscathed, but not defeated either. You are an inspiration.

Amanda said...

Luke 1:37. what beautiful reminder.

c.violante said...

Luke 1:37

Arnebya said...

I needed to read this today, your words, your faith, your confidence in Him, your strength. And not so much because of recent events but because of, well, more. Like many others, I hope the pendant finds the right home. In fact, I know it will. I know it.

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37
I would be honored to wear this in Jack's memory.

Susan S.

vawriter said...

Anna, I read your surpassingly beautiful blog this morning, then next followed a link-http://www.cbn.com/tv/2125902823001 --
which led me to CBN, a program I do not normally watch. They interview a woman, a surgeon who drowned in a kayaking accident and was revived after 20 minutes. Her description of the experience gave me chills as I imagined Jack in her place. What a blessing to think that his Savior's arms were around him in a tight embrace as Jack made the transition to his heavenly home.

Breton11 said...

Luke 1:37 <3

ella said...

Luke 1:37! I see that verse in a new light. What a hard week for all of us, hugs to everyone. xoxo

Janderon said...

Luke 1:37

Beth said...

Luke 1:37

Vabeachmom said...

God bless you, Anna.

Amy said...

Luke 1:37

Beautiful post.

Unknown said...

"Luke 1:37"
As always, Anna, your words touched me in a deep, sometimes unfathomable, place in me. I've borne great losses in my life, alone, and you've made me question my faith or lack thereof.

In any event, it seems few of us want to win the pendant for ourselves. My brother's wife's family recently lost their infant daughter to leukemia, so that's who I'd want to gift your pendant, too.

Thank you for sharing.

Kimberly Ball said...

Luke 1:37

Sometimes, like you, I need the comforting voice of God to still my soul of the doubts, fears, and anger that come with loss. Your blog is a raw, honest commitment to share your story through genuine gratefulness that God is truly ENOUGH! Thank you...

Lyndsey Lucas said...

Luke 1:37

We all could use a little hope.

Anonymous said...

After reading the comments to your beautiful post, it seems there are so many people who would cherish one of Jack's pendants. I purchased another pendant for you to give away and Holly Lane designs is holding it for you. God bless you and your sweet family.

Danica said...

Luke 1:37

Lisa said...

I know that this will go to someone who needs it desperately right now. Because that is how God and Jack roll.

Lesley said...

"Luke 1.37"
Anna your writing, as always, gets straight to the heart of so many things. I so desperately need to let go of the control I never had. And i have to believe that, even for me, nothing is impossble.
I am back home after beng in Boston to look after my daughters babies while she and my SIL ran. We were all so close to it and now I dont know what to make of anything.
Thank you again, and thank you dear Jack.

Jess said...

Luke 1:37
So beautiful.

Eileen said...

Luke 1:37

Just beautiful. And amazing how emphasis/focus can alter the meaning ever so slightly. God's word meets us wherever we are. LOVE.

laurelsmom said...

Luke 1:37 (with love)

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37
"or we can let go of the control we never had and let God...."
WOW!

Meg...CT

One crazed mommy said...

Luke 1:37

I would love to win that beautiful necklace, but I hope it goes to the one who needs it the most. This week has been a bit rough for everyone with all the tragedies, then yesterday our family had to put down our beloved cat of 12 years - it's not the same as some other losses, but it still hurts.

NLS 1993 said...

Luke 1:37

the impossible that is somehow possible.

yes.

xoxo

Heather said...

oh shoot-dang

that NLS-1993 is Heather King,
@heatheroftheeo

good grief. I don't know how to fix these things.

heh.

The Hebbs said...

Anna....I love that scripture. Thank you. I have had to turn my life over to our God and trust in Him and His plan. It is so hard. Thanks for sharing Jack with me.

Much love, Tiffany Hebb

Marsha said...

Luke 1:37

Lovely words.

Kristin Bishop said...

Luke 1:37

Thanks for your beautiful words!

LM said...

Luke 1:37 such a beautiful reminder of steadfast love.

ScrappinLita said...

Beautiful!

Luke 1:37

jenn said...

Luke 1:37

Rachel said...

Luke 1:37 <3 <3 <3

Thank you so much, Anna.

In Search and Raw said...

luke 1:37, so many that could benefit from this gift. again, jack, touching people and enhancing lives...

Jules said...

Luke 1:37
Thank you for sharing. This is so beautiful.

In Search and Raw said...

luke 1:37 - what a gift this would be for someone needing a reminder. again, jack continues to touch lives. remarkable.

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

To you and your family. To the families who have lost a child, or any loved one. I would give this to my cousin who lost her 1.5 year old little girl 5 years ago this week.

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37

Katie F. said...

Luke 1:37

Kathy said...

Luke 1:37.

April said...

Luke 1:37

MaryDawnCarrier said...

Luke 1:37 <3

Princess Kate said...

Luke 1:37

Anna, your words move me. Thank you. Peace and comfort to you and your family.

alisonmarietc said...

Luke 1:37

I would love to win this and give it to my dear sister who lost her middle school son in an accident in this fall and I know she reads this blog and draws hope and strength.

Unknown said...

Beautiful xx

LauraBeth said...

Anna... I, too, am grateful for the grace of your words. Praying that the pendant(s) find their way to the ones who need them.

Blessings to you and all of those who have posted here.

Love to you Tim,and Margaret, from the other side of town.

Julie said...

Luke 1:37

Beautifully said.

Adrienne Kerman said...

Luke 1:37

We're Jack Strong; We're Boston Strong
http://mintsinmymotherspurse.blogspot.com/2013/04/boston-strong.html

emilee793@aol.com said...



Luke 1:37

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37

And may God bless you and yours.

carolyn said...

Luke 1:37.

How beautiful.

Peg said...

Luke 1:37

Eliza said...

What a lovely post, Anna. Someone else needs the pendant and I hope it finds the right person :) I hope you have a peaceful and relaxing weekend. <3

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37 God bless you. I really needed to hear this today.

Pol said...

Luke 1:37

sweetpagene said...

how do you do it? how is it, that without fail, you ALWAYS write exactly what i need to hear that applies exactly to what i'm struggling with at the moment? i do not doubt that your blog is an answer to prayers i don't have the courage to utter.

Julie Warwick said...

Beautiful. Luke 1:37.

Julie Warwick said...

It just came to me who really needs this right now. Kate Leong over at Chasing Rainbows. She lost her beautiful son, Gavin, this week. Let's all vote to give it to Kate!

Laura said...

Already wearing ~ and cherishing ~ my own.
Beautiful post.

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

Dana said...

Anna,
I don't want this for myself. I believe my friend Kate could use it much more. She lost her beloved son last weekend. I have grieved deeply this week for all the mothers who have lost a precious child. Lord have Mercy.

http://www.kateleong.com/

Blessings to you.

K A B L O O E Y said...

Been thinking/talking with my daughter a lot about these things lately, even before the events in Boston. Once again, you are more articulate than I can ever hope to be. The necklace and life that inspired it are beautiful. I'm sure it will find an owner who will cherish it.

Shannon Heupel said...

Luke 1:37

So many people with so many good intentions for this necklace that I hope it's randomly chosen because I know I wouldn't be able to pick just one. We all bear such scars and have such hope. What a wonderful thing you are doing.

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

Rue said...

Luke 1:37...
Anna,
So humbled by your strength. My brother drowned at 19. I was 10 and unfortunately the pain so great for my parents that his name was not spoken for years. I wish we could have handled his death like you have done for Jack. I know it is hard to do but you keep his memory alive and your love for him and your whole family shines through every word you write. Much love and prayers of comfort to you...thank you!

Tasha said...

Luke 1:37. Regardless, thank you for the post. Sometimes you come across something that reminds you of your faith. And you didn't even know you needed reminding.

Ellen aka Ellie said...

Luke 1:37

Kristin said...

Luke 1:37
"when the shock started to wear off and the pain seeped into my bones, my heart, even my hair follicles,"
THAT pain is so familiar. I have never commented before but I keep coming back to your blog because you write what my heart feels. Thank you for writing and helping so many others!

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

Anonymous said...

Thank you for sharing from your heart.

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37 Anna you and Jack have been a real inspiration

Jenny said...

Luke 1:37

I am facing the first anniversary of my little six year old Harry's passing next week. I ran across your blog tagged on someone elses. I am grateful that someone is able to put a voice to many of my thoughts.

Susie - Walking Butterfly said...

Sitting here watching the police on tv surrounding a boat that may contain a 19 year old killer from the marathon and wondering about how God feels as he watches the mess we people have made of things. And will HE step in or not?
Reminding myself that there are MORE good people than bad in this world but we only hear of the bad. WITH God we can walk around in this scary world. Thank you for this reminder of God with us dear Anna.

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37
I lost my sweet Joshua in 1993..seems like yesterday

Em said...

luke 1:37

this post was just what i needed today. yes we have miracles, just not the ones we would have chosen

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37 ~ How my sister needs to keep this verse on her heart as she deals with the diagnosis of ALS a short time after losing her only and precious son to suicide. She led me to your writings because I know they must bring her great comfort. Thank you for your words of truth, of pain, of healing. I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful boy.

Cynthia said...

Luke 1:37!
I love Jack!!!
XO

Kristibella said...

Luke 1:37 I would love to send this to Kate Leong (kateleong.com/chasing rainbows). Her precious 5 yr old son Gavin died suddenly this past week, and she is shattered <3.

Lisa said...

I think Kate needs this right now...

http://www.kateleong.com/2013/04/my-worst-fear.html#.UXH9dqLvuSp

Luke 1:37

Anonymous said...

I would not like to be entered. I just wanted to tell you that you have been on my mind. Your story is forever a part of me.


Kristen

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37 ...Thank you

Gloria Lee said...

Luke 1:37. I'm learning through your blog and other people around me how much I need God in my every day life and how much he is already there for me. thank you...

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37, thank you...

Heather said...

Luke 1:37

Heather said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Debby@Just Breathe said...

"Luke 1:37"

Kristi said...

Luke 1:37 - Thanks for your post!

Patricia said...

Luke 1:37

Thank you for this opportunity to win something that means so much...

Unknown said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Ms. Spreigl said...

Thank you for this today Anna. Luke 1:37

Anonymous said...

@Irene, My heart goes out to you, and I'm very sorry. Of course it's not asking for too much.

ellen said...

Luke 1:37

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37

God bless you! Praying & thinking of you daily.

Anonymous said...

I was going to comment to try to win this beautiful piece of jewelry. I miscarried in December, and my husband and I are desperately trying to get pregnant again. I've been repeating this verse for months now, and it's provided a lot of consolation. As empty as I feel at times, I have a son already. A toddler who lights up my world. A toddler who, at random, takes my breath away because I'm so consumed with love for him. My loss hurts me, but I can't fathom the pain you, and all of these other ladies, are feeling. So, I'm not entering. But I wanted to comment and tell you that I am praying for each and every one of you. Sending love from Tennessee..<3

Melissa Cheney said...

Luke 1:37

This will go to my sweet friend Corey who lost her son in a car accident last year.

THANK YOU, Anna, for your grace and strength and love. You have truly inspired me.

Melissa Cheney said...

Can I change my vote to go to Kate Leong? Just spent the last half hour reading her blog and my heart just aches for her.

gowolves100 said...

Luke 1:37 After the loss of my daughter at 32 weeks and being unable to conceive another, things have seemed rather impossible here. It's nice to turn to the bible and I always seem to find comfort there.

OSMA said...

Luke 1:37

Jack, always.

Xoxo

Mary Meisenbach said...

Luke 1:37 - We lost our 24 year old niece to cancer in February and I know that my Sister in Law would get great peace from this. It is beautiful!

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37. Some days still seem impossible

Judith said...

Luke 1:37

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37
I would love to pass this beautiful pendant on to a friend who lost her 8 year old daughter to a brainstem tumor a few weeks ago.
As always, your post is inspiring and beautifully written!
Thank you!

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37

No me ha dejado. No8Do. It's the motto of Seville and it also reminds me that what seems impossible is possible, and we are not abandoned.

Robyn said...

Luke 1:37

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37

Jaclyn Rice said...

Luke 1:37

Meredith said...

Luke 1:37

Carry on warrior.

Drushelle said...

"Luke 1:37"

AHS said...

Luke 1:37

I would love to send this a dear friend.

Tracy Balderach said...

Beautifully written, Anna!

Luke 1:37! Amen!

This would be a perfect gift for the momma to my dear 31 year old friend who just lost her battle with cancer. Maybe it would be the beginning of planting the seed of faith that can only grow with His loving hands, His planned timing and perfect works!

Still praying for your sweet family as you mourn your precious Jack!

xxoo

Me said...

Luke 1:37

This would be given to a dear friend who lost a daughter to Meningites years ago. Her daughter would be graduating High School this year along with my daughter who was her friend.

Susan said...

Luke 1:37...just a mom who lost my sweet 12 year old girl this past August...she fought a heroic battle against Ewing sarcoma...Jesus decided to give her the greatest reward for that battle and brought her home with Him. I miss you so much...XXOO

Anonymous said...

Luke 1:37. You continue to inspire us all.

kristin said...

Luke 1:37 you are an inspiration

The Mommy said...

Luke 1:37

Thank you for writing.

Diana Lesjak said...

Luke 1:37 Thank you for your beautiful words Jack's Mom, Anna

Kathy at kissing the frog said...

Luke 1:37 You're an amazing source of inspiration and strength. xoxo

Mel said...

Luke 1:37

What a beautiful tribute to Jack

Lori Wilson said...

Luke 1:37

Linda K said...

Luke 1:37

Timing of this message is more than profound. After pleading and begging and internal screaming and pounding of my chest, all out of frustration with God and why isn't He listening to my prayers to SAVE MY SON from the darkness of his eating disorder, I read this. I have printed it and will re-read it again and again, until I find the peace....

Kirsten said...

Luke 1:37

Laura Lynn said...

Luke 1:37 I have a friend who's husband is in intensive care, with no end in sight, and would love to win it for her.

COKim75 said...

Luke 1:37

Thank you for blessing your readers with such an amazing blog.

Dedra said...

Luke 1:37.

Anonymous said...

Regarding the "evil" events of the week, Huston Smith (the great scholar of religion) said something once that made much sense to me. When a small child of 2 or 3 drops her ice cream cone on the ground, she erupts into inconsolable wails. To her, this is an unspeakable evil. But from the adult perspective, we know it is a passing moment, easily redeemed. God has a similar perspective on the great "evils" of the world.

(I would NEVER say this directly to someone who had just lost a loved one in a bombing! It would be horribly insensitive! But as we are all (hopefully) somewhat removed from the events, i always find it helpful to keep this in mind, though of course, I only partially understand it myself.)

Erica in VT ( just FYI, I am not seeking to win the necklace -- though it is beautiful! These others deserve it more than me.)

Vickie Ingle said...

Luke 1:37
I would love to win this to put my favorite verse on it. I also lost him when he was 9 years old to cancer on November 7, 2011. I have written and told you before how much Jack reminds me of him. Your stories of Jack brings me more comfort than you will ever know.

vingle64@yahoo.com said...

Luke 1:37

I would love to win this pendant to remember my precious son that I lost to cancer on November 7, 2011. I have written and told you before much your Jack reminds me of my Alex. They were very close in age and had similar interests and very similar personalites. Your blogs help me with my grief so much. I want to thank you for that. My daughter's name is Molly who was Margaret's name in your earlier blogs. Some days I feel like you are writing what I am feeling. I love your family and I have never met them, but feel I have known them forever.

Theresa O said...

Luke 1:37

This exact picture you postedis on my bathroom mirrors in my house...first thing Zach and I see every morning. Thinking of you, and always thinking what an amazing woman you are.

carolyn said...

Luke 1:37
One short line can say so much.

Brenda said...

Luke 1:37

Thank you for your words.

1 Buddha's Mom said...

Luke 1:37 - what a timely and always relevant verse to ponder.
Your writing always gets me "right there".

Tara E. said...

Luke 1:37.

God bless you.

Momobug said...

God bless you, Anna. Luke 1:37

Sharon Cox said...

Luke 1:37
As a mother of a special needs child, I know that With God Nothing is Impossible!!

Melissa DC said...

Luke 1:37

Sending much love to you and to all the people affected by the bombing, the blast and all other devastation. XOXO

Colette Nichols said...

Luke 1:37, Nothing is impossible with God. With that anything is possible, good or bad, right or wrong, it is all about Gods will and not our own.

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37- so very beautifully written. Thanks for sharing yourself with all of us.

Heidi said...

I keep doing this thing where I read you on my phone and my phone won't let me comment and then I leave it too long before I come back to say I love you and I'm reading and I think of you so, so much.
I love what Laura Perry said - that this beautiful jewelry is meant for someone else. I agree. It isn't meant for me. I wish I could hug you right now. xo

Unknown said...

Luke 1:37 - A beautiful post, as always, Anna.

Terri Hughes said...

Luke 1:37

Wow, you are such an inspiring writer. Love to read your work!

Bridget McCarthy said...

I drink up your words. They are like a salve to my soul.

Vickie Ingle said...

Anna,
This is Vickie Ingle. I did not mean to post twice on this blog. My apologies. I did not think the first post saved. Sorry.

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