Sep. 27, 2008
Putting things away

Posted in Encouragement and Other Thoughts

I cleaned out the boys' closet today.  I have bags of clothes that Tank outgrew and also all of Christian's clothes.  I set aside a handful of shirts (okay, two handfuls) and put them in a plastic bin with some of Christian's things (his piggy bank, 2nd place trophy from the Pinewood Derby races at church, his red Converse tennis shoes that I loved, our fav knit cap, Spiderman backpack...).  His blankie is under a pillow next to my nightstand-- I'll put that in the bin very soon... but not just yet. 

I'm not sure what I'll do with some of the things in that bin.  I know that these are just "things" and are not my littlest man.  But maybe I'll make a memory quilt down the road one day... or maybe I'll open the box a couple years from now and then decide that I don't need to hold on to this or that... or maybe it'll just go in the attic and I'll never open it again.  I'm just glad that I don't have to decide all of this rightthisverysecond!

Thinking about doing all of it was actually much more difficult than the actual doing of it.  (Does that make sense?)  As I cried some and put the things away, I kept reminding myself that "He doesn't need these things in Heaven." (Thanks for reminding me of that a few weeks ago, Lele!)  And it is SO true!  I am comforted by that thought... even when I miss him like crazy.  Everyone says I am being strong, but if they only knew how God has been holding me close and speaking so very clearly to me (actually, I think He is speaking the same-- I am just being more receptive than before!).  Then they'd know that it is He that is holding me up... I am really not doing anything at all other than just trying my best to LISTEN to Him.


"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed;  for I am thy God:  I will strengthen thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." - Isaiah 41:10

"The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower." - Psalm 18:2

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." - Ephesians 6:10 (emphasis mine)

Speaking of listening, have y'all heard of Rita Springer?  My friends shared a very cool song by her called "I Have To Believe"-- let me tell ya, she sings with soul!  The live version snippet on her myspace page isn't as good as the one from her CD.  (Ugh... now I have to get that image of the sooouuuuul train chugging across the screen out of my head!)

Comments

Sep. 27, 2008 - oh Marshy!

Posted by SuperAngel

My heart goes out to you! I can't imagine putting stuff away like that! HUGS!
I am so happy and thankful that you are so close to God! That is just so comforting and I so glad that you feel like you can hear Him more! What a comfort!
I am sure that those things of his are a huge comfort too and I think God has them for you to be just that!
Those are great scriptures for us to remember! Thank you for being you! You are so amazing and I love you!
HUGS! dear friend
Amanda
http://superangelsblog.com

Edited by SuperAngel on Sep. 27, 2008 at 10:48 PM

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Sep. 27, 2008 - <em>Untitled Comment</em>

Posted by Jocelyndixon

Yes, he doesn't need those things in heaven, but I think God has given you little things, like his blankie, to comfort you and to remind you that he doesn't need those things now. I think a quilt would be such a sweet thing for you to have.

May God continue to hold you in the palm of His mighty hand and may you continue to lean on Him for he cares for you!


thinking of you dear Marshiemellow. ((((HUGS & TEARS))))

Edited by Jocelyndixon on Sep. 27, 2008 at 10:48 PM

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Sep. 27, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Suzanne

I haven't heard the song yet, and it's too late to turn up the speakers right now. So, I'll have to go be scared by the train another day. (That *is* where you saw the train, right?)

Anyways, thank you for your open and honest dependency on the Lord. His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

"We praise you, Father, and glorify Your name for all that You are doing in Marsha's life."

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Sep. 27, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by drewsfamilytx

Suzanne-- actually I was thinking SOUL TRAIN! LOL It made sense in my head anyway!

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Sep. 27, 2008 - (((HUGS)))

Posted by Anonymous

Marsha,

I have been reading your every post and hanging on your every word since Christian went home, and I have shed many a tear for you, and your family, and held my little guys just a bit closer.

Until now I haven't had the courage to leave you a comment... I just didn't believe that any thing I could say would help you in any way, so I hid. I can't quite decide if that was selfish, prideful or just cowardly. Any way you slice it, it was wrong and I'm so sorry that I didn't allow the Lord to use me to help comfort you!

Praise God He is the only One who can truly lift us up, but you have my word that I will never hide from the urge I have to comfort a sister who is hurting!

Hugs to you, my dear sister, and many prayers!

~Christine
homeschoolblogger.com/youngmommy (can't seem to log in to HSB, for some reason)
www.fromdatestodiapers.com

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by chickadee@afamiliarpath

i know He is holding you up too. that has to be the only way anyone could get through this. still praying.

melissa

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Annemarie

Hey Marsha,

I keep thinking of a Steven Curtis Chapman song:

His strength is perfect, when our strength is gone
He'll carry us when we can't carry on
Raised in His power, the weak become strong
His strength is perfect, His strength is perfect.

When you are on my heart and mind (thus causing me to pray for you) this runs through my head. Thank you for sharing all that you have. It allows me to get a small glimpse of how God is answering my prayers for you. I am also praying for the boys and David.

And I know what you mean about it being harder to type out than say. I think that maybe that has to do with the power of the written word. Which could maybe be why God choose to speak to us through His written Word instead of something like oral tradition.

I want you to know Marsha, that God has given me a great love for you and your family. Sometimes I think that He wakes up Rocky in the middle of the night just so I can pray for you guys!

~Annemarie
http://thedaysfashionedforme.blogspot.com/

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Mycrazylife

I can't imagine how hard it is to put Christian's things away, but I do know that God provides supernatural strength to accomplish even the most difficult tasks. Though, in my natural mind, this is too much for one to bear. I thank God that He is your strength and peace through each moment.

Now I too must go and get the Sooooooul Train out of my head. Because I AM old enough to know what that is!

Love you Marshie!
Hallie
http://www.fromtherubberroom.com

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Anonymous

Oh Marsha, I cannot even fully understand how that must be for you. I am shedding tears as I read this post, but I am sure what I am feeling is only a teensy bit what you are feeling. I am so happy that you have the faith in our Lord to get you through this. I have no doubt that this entire experience, and the fact that you are so openly sharing it with, well, maybe, the world, has touched so many others in more ways than one. Especially your testimony about how wonderful God truly is. I think for most, an experience like this would be a breaking point. You are truly amazing.

Amy
www.learningatourhouse.wordpress.com

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Anonymous

Ohhh, a quilt sounds like an amazing project. It's okay to cling to those things. Just because Christian knows only happiness, doesn't mean his momma doesn't miss him every single minute. You were brave!

Thanks for weighing in about the comments on my blog. It's been interesting to see the opinions all over the spectrum.

I'll be writing about IEW soon. But the short of it - worth the money! Painful to spend, but admittedly, worth it. The DVDs make the program.

I think of you often. *hugs*

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Anonymous

That post above was me! I thought it let me fill in who I was. Well, shucks.

I don't want to be anonymous!

-Darcy
www.lifewithmy3boybarians.com

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Cleaning closets

Posted by tn3jcarter

I've been wondering how you were doing with all of the "stuff." (And praying for you.) When my dad died, my mom and I were total opposites. She wanted/needed to pack things away quickly while I (the total packrat) struggled to let go of even an old business card where he had jotted a note.

I loved what you said - Thinking about doing all of it was actually much more difficult than the actual doing of it.

That is so true in SO many ways.

Thanks for sharing how God is holding you all up through all of this. It is such an encouragement and testimony to His grace, love, power, and mercy.

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Sep. 28, 2008 - My Friend

Posted by thornfaith

Thank you for having the strength to listen to Him, that in itself is enough to help us all grow closer to Him...Alright I have to go cuz I can't see the computer screen, I think I have something in my eye=) Oh who am I kidding I have balled everytime I think of you! Your one amazing gal!

Praying for your strength!
Love,Faith

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Prayers

Posted by Anonymous

I know it's hard, I'm going through the same thing-going through my mom's stuff. It's weird not seeing her in their house. But like you said, I have to reassure myself that she doesn't need these things....

Nikowa
knowledgehouseacademy.com

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by mamaduso

You are right--you don't have to make any decisions yet. Just hold onto it until it feels right to do something with it. You will know when the time is right. We had my husbands aunts over this weekend and one of them lost her daughter to a tragic car accident by a drunk driver. She was an adult--but I know it makes no difference. A child is still a child. The difference is that she doesn't have the faith you do and I see you hanging on to Gods arms so closely and he is so faithful. To think of our aunt having to hold onto nothing just tears my heart out.
bless you Marsha. Still praying for you. And please, talk about Christian as much as you desire. We all want to walk this road with you as much as online friends can.
Susan

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Hiya my friend!

Posted by deedeeuk

Wish I could give you a hug as you take care of these difficult jobs! And please be assured that no matter how weak you feel, you really are doing REALLY well! When I lost my babies five years ago, I also nearly lost my grip on God at the same time. It was only by His grace that He held on to me and brought be back under His wing. I got so angry at Him and had a right old temper tantrum for a few months! (hard to imagine right? LOL!) The very fact that you are finding your comfort and strength in God's word and in His love is a testimony to the strength of your relationship with Him! Be encouraged, even on the hardest days. Sending HUGE (((HUGS))) from across the globe!

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by bbullard

I know that everyone in Blogland is loving you and lifting you up in prayer right now. I have done the same. May the Lord move even closer to you in the days ahead. God bless you and your family.

Belinda
www.homeschoolblogger.com/bbullard

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Those things are for you

Posted by KarinKath

until you don't need them anymore...or maybe you always will. Hold onto them. It's okay. I'm sure you've held onto little things from the other two boys...its okay to hold on to things to jog our memory and bring a smile.

That's just my opinion anyway.
I'm so glad you are listening to the Lord and allowing him to hold you up.

I love you,

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Sep. 28, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by 40winkzzz

I agree with the others-- although Christian doesn't need those things, you and your family do right now. I know that I would. I'm glad you are hanging onto it.

Thanks for sharing these moments with us, Marsha. I am so glad that you have found such rest and comfort in Jesus. I don't know how people who don't have the Lord ever get through things like that.

This song came to mind when I was thinking about you the other day:

"Sometimes he calms the storm
With a whispered 'Peace be still'
He can settle any sea
But that doesn't mean He will
Sometimes he holds us close
And lets the wind & waves grow wild
Sometimes he calms the storm
And other times He calms His child"
(Scott Krippayne, Sometimes He Calms the Storm)

Obviously Jesus has been holding you very close during your storm!

(I do want to add that I hope that you will feel free to share when you feel angry or discouraged as well. Your bloggy friends are here for the good thoughts *and* the bad ones!)



Oh, and RYC on my Wordless Wednesday post-- yes, the second picture was *supposed* to evoke laughter. It definitely did at my house. It's good for my family to remember that yes, underneath all that grouchy mom stuff, I really *do* have a sense of humor. :-)




Edited by 40winkzzz on Sep. 28, 2008 at 9:58 PM

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Sep. 28, 2008 - ((((hugs))))

Posted by kympossible

As others have said - His strength is made perfect in our weakness. I can't even imagine how hard it would be to decide what to put away and what to keep, but I know that the sweet memories are precious to hold onto. I think a quilt is a wonderful idea. Prayers for you and David and the boys as you continue the journey.

Blessings,
Kym

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Sep. 29, 2008 - Thanks for checking in...

Posted by Jaybird

(((Marsha)))

I don't even know what to say that hasn't already been said. Just wanted to chime in with another "You're amazing and God is amazing and still praying for you."

~Jaybird
www.subtlycatty.blogspot.com

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Sep. 29, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by CoCo

I love you Marshy!

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Sep. 29, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by EEEEMommy

His strength is truly being manifested in your weakness. When people look at you, they're seeing His strength, and that's a fabulous thing! Keep resting in Him. I continue to pray for you!

Grace and Peace,
Angel

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Sep. 29, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by JenIG

I think putting away things would be one of the hardest parts. I wish I was there to help.

It is good to see you blogging -- it is so odd how much of a comfort you've been to US thru out this awful trial. love you much

Jen ~ http://Jeneralities.com

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Sep. 29, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by SandBetweenMyToes

I am so filled with love for the Lord as I continue to watch Him bless you, comfort you, and help you through this time of life. The step of putting things away in many areas of life is difficult to take, yet often brings more of a sense of peace. Praying for God's peace to flood your soul this day.
Letitia

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Sep. 29, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by JoyfulMomma

I've been praying for you and your family since I saw the note on Dandelion Seeds' blog. I've lost two babies through miscarriage, and I know it's a different loss that you grieve, but I also watched my parents struggle with grief after my brother's death many years ago. They kept a handful of things, and today my children play with their uncle's special toys, guitars, and bike. I think it brings comfort/joy to my parents and has allowed our little family to talk about heaven and a little boy uncle who lives with Jesus.

Praying for you in TX,
Belynda

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Sep. 29, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by tnmomtomanyblessings

Marsha-
It is hard to believe how quickly our days pass. Life is so fragile.
Thanks for the updates. Like so many I keep praying and wondering how you and your family are.
I'll keep praying.
Maria

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Sep. 30, 2008 - Hey!

Posted by Sammy4meowz

It was good to hear from you on my blog! I think of you so often. Your faith and your strength in the Lord amazes me and inspires me. I have been struggling myself lately. Just having a hard time waiting and trusting. Praise God that He is holding you up and carrying you through!!! Sending you a hug this morning... (((**)))
Sam

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Sep. 30, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Suzanne

LOL about the "soul" train, Marsha! :)

Jen IG mentioned it being odd that you've been such an encouragement to US through all of this. I don't know that it's so much "odd" as it is God! He's sooo awesome!

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Sep. 30, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Jilann

I am praying for you and your family. I think I would need to keep some things too, just because. I love to read of the many ways that God is meeting you right where you are and holding you close to His heart. He is faithful, even through things that we may never understand!

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Sep. 30, 2008 - you are amazing

Posted by Anonymous

You come to my mind quite often...I stop and lift you up to our Father. So glad that his Presence is so tangible to you right now..that His voice is clear and comforting. He loves you dearly.

You really are an amazing woman Marsha, what a testimony your faith is to all of us.

Kimmie
mama to 6
one homemade and 5 adopted
http://overthemoonwithjoy.blogspot.com

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Sep. 30, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by DanielleW

(((Hugs))) You sound very wise handling things this way.

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Sep. 30, 2008 - RE:Putting things away

Posted by homeschoolingKatt

I am glad you realize you do not have to make any of those decisions right now.
I am so glad you feel God so strongly. He is great. I always knew that but have "seen" that so clearly in you lately. Thank you friend for letting me see that so clearly through you.
Hugs from VA
Vicki

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Oct. 3, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Anonymous

He may not need these things, but you do. They are special little momentos of him for you. I know I save things from my children as they grow up. I keep little outfits and special keepsakes from each child.
You don't know me, but I've been praying for you.
Debra
Keeper of my home, Wife to Randy,
Mom to Noah, Zachary and Jesse

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Oct. 4, 2008 - Keep it

Posted by heartmatters

It's alright to keep out the blankie for a LONG while...no pressure...even a year. Christian would probably have given it to you to hold if he knew you needed it.

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Oct. 6, 2008 - christian

Posted by Anonymous

Hi Marsha, I 'm darci, fellow homeschooler and mom of boys. We've never met. I found you from other blogs, and I clicked to you when I heard your story and prayed for you... Since, I've been following you.
In 2006, I was a mommy of three boys, and my almost three year old son died traumaticly and unexpectedly. It is awful. But yes, and as your words reflect, JESUS is enough.
I am sorry for your loss here on earth and your grief.
I've wished at times I could call and chat with you, it helps me, and I remember wishing I could talk to someone I didn't know, that had walked a similar path as me... but had faith!
My boys and I were just at your site, enjoying the singing of "m God is an awesome God", and we loved it. We talked about Christian, his big brothers, and it helped to talk about grief, loss, etc. My boys are the only ones living on earth without their brother!
Thanks for sharing your story with us.
We are praying for you all tonight as we tuck in ....
If you ever want to chat... email darci@vingster.com
We have a site too, tuckersalisbury.com
BLessings in Jesus, my new friend in grief,
darci

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Oct. 7, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Mycrazylife

Dear Marshie,

When I want to be encouraging and lifting you up, you instead encourage and hold me up. I love you my friend and thank you for sending what I really needed to read today.

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Oct. 12, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Anonymous

Dearest Marsha - I am reminded of a time when our family was going through a crisis while living in Okinawa. I remember standing in my living room with the curtains closed and the lights out and simply saying "God you HAVE to carry me through this." I can't explain the feeling that came over me but it was as if I could feel His very arms begin to encircle tightly around me and hold me up. I fell into His arms weeping that day knowing that He was with me and I could trust Him. I know He is doing the same for you and your family!!

My prayers are ever with you!
God bless,
Sallie
http://www.angelfire.com/sc/anderklan/seasidetales

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Dec. 8, 2008 - Untitled Comment

Posted by Juliestew

Marsha,
Just wanted to drop by and say hello. It's been a while since I've been here and I loved catching up on life in Texas. I love the video. Your voice sounds just like I would imagine it to sound. Sweet and full of love.
Listening to your walk has been amazing. I know you miss Christian so very much and I am so glad you have the hope and love that is in Jesus to carry you through the days.
You don't know how much it means to have you share your journey with us. Thanks for being willing to do so. I love seeing the photos you post of all the boys. The one waiting for the cake was a favorite!
Just wanted you to know I was thinking of you and also enjoying catching up.
May Our Daddy hold you ever so tightly in his arms always!
IN HIM,
julie

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I'm Marsha...proud Mrs to David, mommy of boys, home educator, chief cook and chaos coordinator... There's always something going on at my house-- not always good, but always something!!!





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