There’s always pain in watching our children grow up; the pain of the first tooth, the first birthday, the first day of school. Each and every milestone that we watch our children reach also represents a loss as we realize that essentially, our babies are one step closer to leaving us.
It can be hard to see past the pain, to look back on pictures of celebrations and days past without a pang of longing for the small beings they once were.
This month marks the angelversary of my daughter’s friend Lily. I posted about Lily’s story before, but for those of you who don’t know her, please visit Justice for Lily to learn more about Lily’s death. Hannah Pratt of the Oh, So Unusual Housewife, a mother of an angel, also recently posted on Lily’s memory.
On November 20, we will honor Lily’s memory on the day she joined Jesus in Heaven. And in honor of Lily and her mother Lauren, I ask all of you to honor Lily’s loss through one simple action:
Rejoice.
Rejoice in the milestones.
Enjoy the small steps.
Take happiness in every birthday, every smile, every passing day.
Because you know what?
If you have those moments, it means your baby is still here. And that is a gift.
And that should always be celebrated. Celebrate every birthday, every first day of school, and every passing year as the gifts for which they are.
The alternative for a mother is a life we can’t imagine, yet a nightmarish reality for so many who have angels in heaven.
Remember Lily and her mother this month by liking Justice for Lily on Facebook—they are trying to get to as many likes as possible by Lily’s angelversary. And always remember—
Strive to always rejoice in the lives your children are living. If for no other reason than simply—
Because they are here.
My angel hugging Lauren....if you look close enough, you'll see two sets of wings. 🙂
SO well said, Chaunie! Lily’s story is so sad. Prayers with her family and friends and everyone involved.
You really hit the nail on the head. Don’t cry because they’re growing up. Praise God because they ARE growing up!