The Ornament

I am not a deeply religious person by any means. I can not quote Bible verses. We go to church but with two kids I'd be lying if I said I listen to the message each time. I don't take part in any bible studies nor do I know who Beth Moore is. But I do know that I'm going to Heaven. I've been so caught up in the fact that two people in my family have left this earth that I never thought of how awesome it must be to be in Heaven to celebrate Jesus' birthday. Can you imagine that birthday party?

Death is so aggravating. Grief is awful. I still cry way more than I thought I would at this point. I'm still very sad that my Granny and Aunt Cynthia aren't here to celebrate the holidays with us. However, I do find a ton of relief knowing they have an invitation to the best party around.

I was in Hallmark the other day and found a Christmas ornament that I had to have. In fact I almost bought them all. I stood there crying my eyes out in the middle of the stupid Hallmark store. The ornament said

"I love you all dearly,
Now don't shed a tear
Cause I'm spending my
Christmas with Jesus this year."


The poem in it's entirety is below.

I still hear the songs,
I still see the lights
I still feel your love on cold wintery nights

I still share your hopes and all of your cares
I'll even remind you to please say your prayers

I just want to tell you, you still make me proud
You stand head and shoulders above all the crowd

Keep trying each moment, to stay in His grace
I came here before you to help set your place

You don't have to be perfect all of the time
He forgives you the slip, if you continue the climb

To my family and friends,
Please be thankful today
I'm still close beside you,
In a new special way

I love you all dearly,
Now don't shed a tear
Cause I'm spending my
Christmas with Jesus this year.
-J.W. Mooney


I know that this whole grief thing will subside as the months tick by. It's just part of life.