“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen” (Matthew 6:9-13)
These were some of the last words my mom and I shared. We prayed this together, she held my hand tightly, and after told me she loved me. Five days later she slipped peacefully into the arms of Jesus.
While I sat with her in the hospital my mind traveled to so many memories of her. Her favorite music, her beautiful creations, her easy laughter, her quiet spirit, her deep love for my dad, her love for her family, her work ethic, her strength and determination – and most important to me, our relationship that grew to a deep friendship and how much I was going to miss her.
Oftentimes I think we take our parents for granted. We’ve known them our entire lives. We’ve shared every possible emotion with them. They’ve always been there for us, pillars of strength and love. And then one day they’re gone and we’re left only with the memories.
Caring for mom and dad as they aged and began to need my strength as theirs failed was a perfect gift from God that I will always cherish. To give back to them the support they gave to me brought me joy that I can’t describe.
I encourage you to reach out to your parents and tell them you love them. Get to know who they are outside of being your parents. Share their lives, learn their stories, become their friend. Our time on this earth is but a whisper – cherish every single moment and carry those moments deep in your heart.
I love you Mom, I miss you terribly. Thank you for loving me.
Heavenly Father, please fill me with your peace as I walk through these moments of grief and loss. Thank you for the precious gift of such a beautiful mother.
Photo by Lisa Fahrenkrog
From Suffering to Praise 
No truer words were ever spoken, Lisa. I was a total rebel growing up. By the time I realized I could be actual friends with my parents, they were gone, and I never got the chance.
Many people do not realize how quickly someone can be taken out of their life. And that is really sad.
Love those God has given you…even if they do not love you back.
Cherish time spent with loved ones. This is God’s desire.
Love you bunches, and so very sorry for your loss.
Shanna
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So beautiful! From a beautiful heart to another beautiful heart!💔💔Sent from my iPad
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Lisa, beautiful writing of your own words in describing your love for your mother. The photo is perfect. May you continue remembering all those memories of your parents and how their spirits shaped you. With much love, Sherry
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What a beautiful memorial to your mom Lisa. She sounded like a wonderful woman. I’m praying that God gives you extra doses of His presence in your life as you mourn the loss of such a good friend.
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