Grateful for the ride

It's always hard when a child dies. But even more so when it's sudden, when we know and admire his family, when so many of us have taken care of him, when we've watched him overcome obstacle after obstacle and get SO close to going home. And it still doesn't make sense. But I am grateful that I had a chance to know him and care for him, even for a short period of time. That I got to stand by his bed and whisper prayers when things weren't going so hot. I'm grateful for the amazing witness that his parents were to the sanctity of life and the power of hope, and that I was able to share in some of their journey. I'm grateful I work in a program where it's okay to cry and hug and take care of each other. I'm grateful for a God Who has His hand in all of this. I'm grateful for the reminder of how important our work is, and how every child we take care of is someone's son and brother and little warrior.

This has been posted on the family's blog for the last 9 months, as we all were along for the ride. Now their little warrior's heart is whole again.

It's a beautiful day up in heaven. Jesus is rounding up his tiniest angels, to go live on earth, and be born. One of the sweetest angels says to Jesus "I don't want to leave, I like it here, and I will miss you". He reassures the scared little angel that everything will be okay, and that he is just going for a visit. He is still not swayed on this idea. So Jesus kneels down, and says, "How about if you leave half of your heart here with me and take the other half with you, will that be okay?" The angel smiles and says, "I guess that will work." But the little angel is still a little scared. He asks, "Will I be okay with only half of my heart?" Jesus replies, "Of course you will, I have other angels there that will help out, and you will be fine."

Then Jesus gives the angel more details about his plan. He says "When you are born, your mommy will be scared, so you have to be strong, and when you feel weak just remember that I have the other half of your heart". "Enjoy your time with your family, play and laugh every day. When its time to come back to heaven, I will make your heart whole again. Always remember that you are not broken, just torn between two loves."

Little Angel (borrowed from the family's blog with thanks)