It’s been over a year since we lost her. My friend, her friend, their mom. Alisa.
That girl had a laugh that could rattle the windows. Sometimes a memory catches me off guard and tears spring to my eyes. Other memories make me giggle out loud. That’s the treasure of friendship. It remains long after the person is gone.
We have that in common, this other mom and I. We both loved her dearly. Me, the college roommate and bridesmaid. Her, the mom’s group pal whose kids grew up alongside. We first met at Alisa’s funeral. She took in our friend’s children as her own, and she extended the blessing of staying in touch.
We met last weekend, my family and hers. We toured a science museum, watched the kids swim in the hotel pool. We shared stories and photos and dinner tables.
They are lovely people. It’s a gift getting to know them.
Beauty from ashes.
Cancer is the devil, you know, stealing joy and leaving a trail of grief in its wake. And yet. Last weekend I saw a glimpse of restoration. Of what God can create beyond the fear and despair of dark chapters.
They are not the end of the story.
Beauty from ashes.
It’s in the chatter of eight kids playing cards in a hotel lobby.
It’s in the echo of “Marco—Polo!” across the swimming pool.
It’s in the intense debate over whether Snape was a good guy or bad.
It’s in two dads talking camping and grilling and raising tender-hearted girls.
It’s in my new friend’s gentle spirit. Her love for Alisa’s kids, whom she now calls her own. They are thriving. They are resilient. They are happy.
Beauty from ashes.
Are you walking through a dark and desolate chapter today? Please remember God isn’t done with you yet. Only He knows how He is writing your story from beginning to end. Our job is to turn the page in faith. Perhaps tomorrow will bring unexpected blessings rising from the depths of adversity.
Beauty from ashes.
I see it now. And I’m reminded of how our God is in the business of redemption.
Isn’t that the very best news?
“To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.” (Isaiah 61:3, NLT)
Blessings,
Becky
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