And there she appeared. Adorably dressed in a pale pink jumper with white tights-embroidered on the front pocket was a hot pink and blue birthday present. Her golden locks framed her round rosy cheeks amplifying that mischievous yet loving smile. It was Lydia!
The elation I felt when I picked her up and held her in my arms, squeezing her tightly, I cannot put into words. Overcome with warmth and happiness, I could feel my soul slowly being filled with joy, providing that elusive sense of wholeness. It was absolutely indescribable yet complete bliss!
I tried to get her some drink water from the fountain. She took a couple of sips. Somehow in my mind I believed if she drank, she would stay with me. Not wanting to let go, I ran my fingers through her beautiful hair, taking note of her sweet scent. Oh how I loved her so much.
Lydia grinned back at me so sweetly, saying “I love you,” and then, just like that she was gone.
Tossing and turning, I was slowly waking up trying to process my current reality from my perfect dream world. I tried unsuccessfully for minutes to fall back asleep, desperate to grasp more time with my girl. Hot tears fell down my face. How could it have been ten years since my five year old left for heaven?
The wholeness I felt was incredible, even if only for a few minutes. To experience this sensation was a wonderful blessing. And then I woke up to navigate this earthly world without my girl. Again. Another day, wondering why me? The most difficult thing any of us grieving, do.
However, if my dream was any indication of what it will be like when we are reunited again it will be so worth it. I was given a reminder that this world we are in is only temporary and that a life of eternity awaits. A place where there is no sorrow or pain, only pure joy and happiness. It’s really there waiting for us. There’s salve for our hearts, relief from this pain we endure.
Dreams and moments like these bring perspective. Little pieces of the puzzle are gradually coming together, yet that doesn’t diminish the pain. We still carry it. However, I’ve learned that no matter our temporary physical separation, Lydia was there, waiting for me. Talk about comforting! I am reminded of the horrific suffering Christ endured for us, so that one day we can all live in eternal glory together.
Rubbing my eyes, I awakened to the singing of birds outside my window and the glimmer of sunshine on the snow. The beauty of life surrounded me inside and out. Inhaling deeply, I whispered, “Yes, I can do this. One day at a time. “
Pulling back the covers, I heard little voices coming from the living room. It was early and surely they were not awake already on a Saturday. A peek down the hall revealed six young eyes glued to the television, watching the movie Annie. Ahhh… Lydia’s favorite. A movie they haven’t watched in years. Oh my heart. And there it came. High pitched off tune adorable voices singing Tomorrow.
“Just thinkin’ about
Tomorrow
Clears away the cobwebs,
And the sorrow
‘Til there’s none
The sun’ll come out
Tomorrow
So ya gotta hang on
‘Til tomorrow
Come what may
Tomorrow, tomorrow
I love ya tomorrow
You’re always
A day
Away”
Songwriters: Charles Strouse / Martin Charnin
Remembering how Lydia used to sing this very song while brushing our beloved dog, my spirit was lifted refueling me with the strength to conquer whatever was to come my way. I’m here to tell you, hang on until tomorrow. Never forget that our hope is renewed every day, come what may. There is nothing we can’t handle when Christ is on our side.
10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 1 Peter 5:10
Because maybe someone else needs to hear this. Maybe you are craving reassurance or are seeking a flicker of hope for whatever difficult season you are traveling through. When things seem hopeless and the pain seems unbearable, remember He died for you. For me. For all of us. His love is never ending. His promises are worth more than any gold, possession, or social media following. At times of sorrow and pain, stand on His promises. Cling to them with all your might. You can do it.
