2 Months

Two months have gone by since I said goodbye to my Lily. It's amazing how much has changed for me during this time. I have felt myself move through the stages of grief, and am proud to say that I am hopeful (at least today). I am hopeful that Lily's existence served a purpose. She has taught me more about myself, my purpose, and the things that really matter. She gave me a new perspective and a new appreciation for life. I believe she accomplished more in her brief time here than I have in my 32 years. She changed my life. She gave me a gift that I will always be grateful for.

I am determined to share my story with others, and to tell others about my daughter because she deserves to be known. I want to recognize her for all that she has done for me and for my family.

My sister-in-law brought us a book of daily devotionals, and this is an excerpt from the devotional for today, August 6. "Sometimes God causes severe winds of trial to blow upon His children to develop their gifts. Just as a torch burns more brightly when waved back and forth, and just as a juniper plant smells sweetest when thrown into the flames, so the richest qualities of a Christian often arise under the strong winds of suffering and adversity. Bruised hearts often emit the fragrance that God loves to smell." How fitting!

I am empowered to move forward and to help someone else. I've been doing a lot of thinking lately, and I am ready to use my experience to make a difference for someone else, but I could use some help. I'll post another blog entry explaining my thoughts, and asking for some feedback, so get your thinking caps on....I've got big plans!