A mother was driving her four-year son home after a funeral service for her younger sister. Her little one noticed that his mommy was sad when out of the blue he said. “Mommy, families are like a puzzle.” What are you talking about replied his anxious mom. “Well, when someone dies, a piece of the puzzle is missing. But when that person falls asleep “VOILA” that person opens their eyes and all the parts of the puzzle come back together again.” This young mother was astounded by the profound message of hope that came from the lips of her son.
This woman shared that after the death of her sister, years later her mother died, then her father and another older sister all within the same year. This time her son was a teenager and again he shared the story of their family being like a puzzle. Each time she would step back from her grief and receive the grace of her little four year who explained the wonder of God and the birth of Christ that comes during this Christmas Season.
This mother worked in a group home as a residential caregiver for developmentally disabled adults. Joann, a resident, had died after battling many serious medical problems while living in the group home. The staff remarked that Joann had nine lives. She was the light of this community expressed by her simple kindness and gratitude. At times, Joann could be quite hard to handle and boisterous seeking to be the center of attention. Once a staff member taught her to fold her hands and say, “I’m sorry” when she hurt someone’s feelings. That memory of her folding her hands and humbly bowing her head to express her apology brought tears since each staff member knew that Joann trusted and loved them in her own special way.
During the Christmas Season, memories of family members and friends have become like missing puzzle parts make us tearful. We remember the light they brought to our hearts and miss their spirit and life force that filled our lives with wonder and grace. At that moment, let us remember the faith of a little four year old “WA LA” who inspired his grieving mother to surrender her grief and find joy again in the memory of those people God has blessed us on earth and have come back together in heaven.
God prays for us as we reflect: “My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.” (Psalm 119:50).
Lord, I pray for all my Sonshine Friends whose thoughts go back to loved ones who are now a part of the communion of saints. From their kindness, wisdom and love may we always be grateful and look forward to the day when we can take our piece of the puzzle and be joined again with them in heavenly peace.
