“FALL has arrived. Behold the changing leaves and enjoy the crisp breeze. Let your eyes take in the bursts of color. Transformation is afoot and hope is in the air.” Anonymous  

It’s that time of year! That time of year when you step outdoors to bask in a crisp breeze that heightens your senses ~ bringing expectation of cooler days, the promise of transformation and hope! That time when the days become shorter, thoughts turn to home, and spicy aromas begin to waft from busy kitchens. Families everywhere begin to plan for long awaited reunions and celebrations.

My mom suffered horribly with lung cancer for many months. It was precisely during this delightful season of the year ~ on October 6, 2005 ~ that she went home to the Lord. It was a day of yellow mums and bright sunshine; it was a day of gentle autumn breezes and changing seasons. Of transformation. Of renewal and hope. On that day Mother’s spirit left her afflicted body and soared to a new home with our Lord Jesus Christ. A day of incomparable transformation for her! 

Her transformation day was a day of wrenching grief for me ~ although I’d been weeping for months at her bedside, knowing this day of separation would come. I had long accepted that she was leaving this old earth, but somehow that day still came as a horrific blow. So final, it seemed. Her little body suddenly so cold and lifeless! And yet, even as an ocean of tears washed over me, I knew that her passing represented a temporary separation ~ and in my heart of hearts I knew I’d see her again.

I knew then, as I know now, that God was in control and carrying out His perfect plan ~ for her, and for me. The bleakness of that moment, dark though it was, represented a preamble to a bright future in eternity. And hope greater than any sadness was my anchor. Over the years that hope has continued to flourish, to keep me grounded. God’s Word is my daily guide. His Holy Spirit is my constant companion. I still miss my mom every day, but I anticipate our reunion with great joy.

My mom was a gentle, quiet Christian who loved unconditionally. She was funny, she was fun-loving. She was comforting and nurturing, inspiring and uplifting ~ like a gentle breeze on a cool afternoon. And so now, every time I sense that crisp gentle stirring, I think of her. I honor her in my heart, today and always.

“I’ll meet you in the morning by the bright riverside

When all sorrow has drifted away

I’ll be standing’ at the portals when the gates open wide

At the close of life’s long weary day.”

I’ll see you there, Mother!