lizgmarshall

Have you ever wished you had a huge remote and could fast forward through something? A tedious conversation, or maybe the perky dental hygienist with a terrifying tray of metal weapons? I have.

Mother’s Day isn’t supposed to be on that list, is it? For anyone missing your mother this year, or maybe you’re a mom missing your beloved child, you know what I’m talking about. It’s inescapable- hourly reminders of happy moms and children everywhere you turn. If you’re considering pulling the percale sheets over your head and waking up Monday, you’re not alone.

I remember the first Mother’s Day after losing my mom. It was impossible to imagine the day without her in the picture. It’s been a few years now and the intense emotion has faded, but not without a few tears along the way. Here are a few thoughts that might help you this week:

* Make a plan  Don’t let the day sneak up on you. Tell someone close how you’re feeling, and ask for help planning a strategy of where you want to be, and how you plan to spend your day. If you decide to be with family and friends or want to get away for a day or two, making a plan can help. 

* Buy yourself a gift. Whether it’s a gorgeous flower arrangement or a trip to Tahiti, know that it’s okay to do something kind for yourself. Your loved one would be honored to know you’re smiling.

* Say what you need to say. Getting thoughts out on to paper is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Write a letter to the person you’re missing. Thank them for the difference they made in your life. Talk about the things they left you-not tangible gifts, but things more like your sense of humor, musical ability, or even unconditional love. Gifts of the heart can never be taken away from you.

If you’re a mom grieving a child this Mother’s Day, I know of some very kind people who understand. Visit The Compassionate Friends to find out more. 

If your mom and your children are still close by, don’t forget to tell them how much you love them! You’ll never regret it. 

Just discovered the most excellent post about how to give and receive help!! Don’t miss this amazing site. 

The writers describe themselves as “practical, straightforward, creative, outside-the-box-but-down-to-earth.”  <- makes me want to read what they have to say.

So thankful I found Litsa and Eleanor and the “what’s your grief” blog! 

The Healing for a Mother’s Heart day retreat was one of the most amazing events I’ve ever experienced. As individual stories unfolded throughout the day I was overwhelmed to hear courageous moms share their photos and stories. You listened lovingly and shared hugs with people you didn’t know, yet seemed to understand your pain.

You, my new friends, are stronger than you know. The verse I shared in the morning session was Psalm 34:18, “God is close to the brokenhearted;and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”  If that’s you right now, please know His words are true; and you don’t have to go through this unthinkable sorrow alone.

The journaling sessions I was scheduled to lead turned into something much more important- a place for you to encourage each other. I loved to see many people connect and find referrals for support groups. Our goal is not to “get over” grief by forgetting; but to get through it by remembering our precious loved ones. As Dr. Heidi Horsley, co-founder of Open to Hope says, “closure is for bank accounts, not love accounts!" I want to encourage you to find ways to keep stories fresh. Save cards, photos and other memories in a safe place until you’re ready to go through them. When you are, I hope they will bring back sweet images of happier days- memories that will always be part of you.

My amazing Heart Strings friends recommended the most magnificent book, "Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young. Spending a few moments with this book first thing in the morning will surely brighten your days.  

I pray the Lord will wrap His loving arms around you today and in the season to come.      

God’s peace, my friends- Beth Marshall 

I had always loved Easter. It was all about springtime, Easter egg hunts and pastel dresses.What’s not to love? I’m not sure how I had missed the point for so long. In college most everyone I knew assumed they were Christian, so I figured I probably was, too. If the faith question ever came up, I somehow thought “Christian’ was the default answer. Several years later I realized I had missed not only the point of Easter, but what it meant to follow Jesus.

One morning at church a twenty eight day challenge was introduced. The purpose was to teach people about reading the bible, journaling and prayer. All three concepts were new to me, so I would write the scriptures in my own words. One in particular got my attention from John 3:16. I read about God loving me so much, that He gave His only Son, so I could have eternal life. The idea of giving up a son was unimaginable. Our son, Michael was three months old at the time.

As I continued to write in the journal, I got a sense someone really was listening. I had never been one to ask for help, but one morning I remember praying a simple prayer. I said, “Jesus, I’m not sure if you’re real or not, but if you are please come into my life.” It’s been almost thirty years since that early morning prayer. I have to tell you, He is real! And, God loved you so much He gave His Son, Jesus for you. What happened three days later literally split time in half when His Son, Jesus Christ rose from the grave. He is still alive today! 

How about you? If you aren’t absolutely sure where you stand with the Lord, you can pray to ask Him into your life today. Don’t miss the whole point like I did!

Romans 10:9 says, “if you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart, God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

I pray blessings for you this Easter. He is Risen!

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