Saturday, July 10, 2010

thank you ...

thank you so much for praying for our family ...

we have said our formal farewell to maria ...

the memorial service was on friday ... it was a sweet time of remembering and crying and even laughing together ... friends and family ... some came thousands of miles ... others drove for hours to be there ... even leo came along with me, for my support, and to honour maria's memory ...

i felt at peace during the service - the Lord definitely surrounded us with His love and assurance that maria was now pain free and with Him ... we are so thankful ...

12 comments:

jel said...

sendind a flybyhugging your way

Mari said...

Isn't it both amazing and wonderful that at a time of such grief, there can also be laughter and joy?
Maria would be happy to know of the friends and family that gathered to honor her. Again, there can be joy because we know where Maria will be spending her eternity!

Sara said...

Dear Sister, my love and prayers to you and your family. It's as thought we have lost a sister's sister having held Maria before the Lord with you for so long. I pray peace for your heart. Much love.

Susan said...

Its so good to remember the fun times and be able to laugh amidst the tears. We did the same thing at the recent deal of our brother-in-law. How wonderful that Leo went with you. I know that had to mean a lot to you.

Catherine said...

I'm so sorry, Saija. My condolences to you and your family. I will keep you in my prayers. May Maria rest in peace and be eternally free from the pain and the struggles that she endured on Earth.

Felisol said...

Dear Saija,
My condolences to you and your family.
Even if I feel I know you all, I can barely begin to feel the grieve and pain you must feel.
Laughter is good.
It also shows there are good memories, and above all, a living hope of reconciliation.
Will continue praying.
From Felisol

Crown of Beauty said...

My dear Saija,

Maria was my namesake, that is one reason I felt close to her.

I had not been visiting too many blogs these months, and have missed the latest updates on Maria's condition.

As I scrolled down to read, a thanksgiving rose up in my heart. After all that she has been through, it was indeed time for her to receive her complete healing.

This post brought tears to my eyes.

It has been a privilege knowing you and your sister. It is for us all, that we may learn from her life, that she has endured what she did.

Rejoicing with you, although the grief will remain for a time.

Love
Lidj

Debra said...

Dear Siaja... I'm so glad the memorial service was special for everyone. I'm sure much healing went on, too, amidst the laughter and tears. You're still in my prayers... Blessings, Debra

Amrita said...

Sending you love and hugs

Maggie Ann said...

How precious truths are and the comfort they bring us are priceless. Absent from the body, present with the Lord...

Terry said...

dear saija...i really don't know how i would be if i had to say so long for now to my sister betty,
i think that the lord must of given you a whole lot of extra strength!
but i know that you will miss your sweet sister..god will continue to be with you....love terry

Jammie J. said...

There is a bond that forges between people during times of trouble. The Lord gives grace and peace to those who ask for it in times of need. I'm glad you were able to have both of those in your time of mourning.

Love to you and Leo...