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Sunday, February 6, 2011 6:46 PM CST
TAs the
Sunday, February 14, 2010 8:41 PM CST
Cancer is without boundaries and can strike anyone at anytime without warning. After the news cuts you deeper than you've ever thought humanly possible - one must muster up enough fight for what lies ahead. Usually that is the victim! There is no time to escape the tumultous demands of chemo, radiation, anti-nausea drips and pain meds that the doctors are prescibing right and left. The testing, procedures, blood draws, and waiting for results is enough to dishearten the strongest of persons. Then, a few days later, the emotional pain begins to unfold as we experience the inevitable. We only wish the shadow on the pillow were just a shadow, but instead it is that beautiful hair that so characterized our loved one. Yet this is only the first week of the fight.
Why would anyone care to read anymore much less ever experience or watch your loved one fall victim to such a dreadful disease?
Seldom do we look at cancer as a way to change us. However, in the refiner's fire the most precious of souls are being skillfully created through intense pain. In our humanity, we know longer yearn for success and riches. We no longer wish for the weekend, but "thank God for TODAY and another day of life He has given us." We re-define what is important and long for time spent together, to make every single hour count, and that others really are more important than ourselves.
We see true love unfold as we watch people line up in the hallways of the hospital sympathizing with our pain. We cry as we witness a little boy empty his pockets of tooth fairy for a greater cause that his tender heart can understand yet accepts by faith. We listen to others share their stories of courage, hope and survival as our weary hearts become enlightened and strengthened for yet another day in the fight.
In the early hours of dawn as we pray so earnestly over our loved one, trying to hold back the tears, a gentle voice whispers, "Trust Me Child.....What seems like the worst, I have meant for the good....Again, I hear -"trust me child."
I can't becomes I can Phil 4:13
Wishing your life away becomes God give me one more day
I am indestructable becomes I am weak but thou art strong
I'll do it myself becomes "Be still and know that I am God"
What can I do for myself becomes what can I do for others
I won't be patient becomes I am the patient
Selfishness becomes selflessness
What can I accomplish today becomes here I am Lord, use me
What can I buy today becomes what can I give away
How do I look today becomes help me to feel better than yesterday
No matter the end result of trial or triumph, may we have the strength to say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7
Sunday, February 14, 2010 8:41 PM CST
Cancer is without boundaries and can strike anyone at anytime without warning. After the news cuts you deeper than you've ever thought humanly possible - one must muster up enough fight for what lies ahead. Usually that is the victim! There is no time to escape the tumultous demands of chemo, radiation, anti-nausea drips and pain meds that the doctors are prescibing right and left. The testing, procedures, blood draws, and waiting for results is enough to dishearten the strongest of persons. Then, a few days later, the emotional pain begins to unfold as we expeience the inevitable. We only wish the shadow on the pillow were just a shadow, but instead it is that beautiful hair that so characterized our loved one. Yet this is only the first week of the fight.
Why would anyone care to read anymore much less ever experience or watch your loved one fall victim to such a dreadful disease?
Seldom do we look at cancer as a way to change us. However, in the refiner's fire the most precious of souls are being skillfully created through intense pain. In our humanity, we know longer yearn for success and riches. We no longer wish for the weekend, but "thank God for TODAY and another day of life He has given us." We re-define what is important and long for time spent together, to make every single hour count, and that others really are more important than ourselves.
We see true love unfold as we watch people line up in the hallways of the hospital sympathizing with our pain. We cry as we witness a little boy empty his pockets of tooth fairy for a greater cause that his tender heart can understand yet accepts by faith. We listen to others share their stories of courage, hope and survival as our weary hearts become enlightened and strengthened for yet another day in the fight.
In the early hours of dawn as we pray so earnestly over our loved one, trying to hold back the tears, a gentle voice whispers, "Trust Me Child.....What seems like the worst, I have meant for the good....Again, I hear -"trust me child."
I can't becomes I can Phil 4:13
Wishing your life away becomes God give me one more day
I am indestructable becomes I am weak but thou art strong
I'll do it myself becomes "Be still and know that I am God"
What can I do for myself becomes what can I do for others
I won't be patient becomes I am the patient
Selfishness becomes selflessness
What can I accomplish today becomes here I am Lord, use me
What can I buy today becomes what can I give away
How do I look today becomes help me to feel better than yesterday
No matter the end result of trial or triumph, may we have the strength to say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7
Sunday, February 14, 2010 8:41 PM CST
Cancer is without boundaries and can strike anyone at anytime without warning. After the news cuts you deeper than you've ever thought humanly possible, - one must muster up enough fight for what lies ahead. Usually that is the victim! There is no time to escape the tumultous demands of chemo, radiation, anti-nausea drips and pain meds that the doctors are prescibing right and left. The testing, procedures, blood draws, and waiting for results is enough to dishearten the strongest of persons. Then, a few weeks later, the emotional pain unfolds as we know the inevitable is about to happen. We only wish the shadow on the pillow were just a shadow, but instead it is that beautiful hair that so characterized our loved one. Yet this is only the first week of the fight.
Why would anyone care to read anymore much less ever experience or watch your loved one fall victim to such a dreadful disease?
Seldom do we look at cancer as a way to change us. However, in the refiner's fire the most precious of souls are being skillfully created through intense pain. In our humanity, we know longer yearn for success and riches. We no longer wish for the weekend, but "thank God for TODAY and another day of life He has given us." We re-define what is important and long for time spent together, to make every single hour count, and that others really are more important than ourselves.
We see true love unfold as we watch people line up in the hallways of the hospital sympathizing with our pain. We cry as we witness a little boy empty his pockets of tooth fairy for a greater cause that his tender heart can understand yet accepts by faith. We listen to others share their stories of courage, hope and survival as our weary hearts become enlightened and strengthened for yet another day in the fight.
In the early hours of dawn as we pray so earnestly over our loved one, trying to hold back the tears, a gentle voice whispers, "Trust Me Child.....What seems like the worst, I have meant for the good....Again, I hear -"trust me child."
I can't becomes I can Phil 4:13
Wishing your life away becomes God give me one more day
I am indestructable becomes I am weak but thou art strong
I'll do it myself becomes "Be still and know that I am God"
What can I do for myself becomes what can I do for others
I won't be patient becomes I am the patient
Selfishness becomes selflessness
What can I accomplish today becomes here I am Lord, use me
What can I buy today becomes what can I give away
How do I look today becomes help me to feel better than yesterday
No matter the end result of trial or triumph, may we have the strength to say, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7
Friday, February 5, 2010 8:06 PM CST
I see blessings untold when I weigh the realities of our lives on a scale....
Today I picked out roses to lay on my son's grave for what would have been his 19th birthday this Sunday, February 7. As tears blurred my eyes on the drive home, I tried imagining things worse than not having my first-born son on his birthday. Momentarily, I weighed out the fact that I could be burdened with the grief of not knowing where my son is spending his eternal destination had I raised a wayward son who never had a relationship with Christ. Oh! the unrest of my soul. But God has spared me of that! I know my Dakota's soul is very much alive and I'm reassured with the full expectation of seeing him again, I can count my blessings.
Rightfully so, I've concerned myself over the scar of adversity that Riley has had to overcome in losing his older brother, hero, and best friend and how that is affecting his life. Then I see the pillar of strength that God has so lavished upon him with the young man he is becoming. I am so very proud of him, and I can count my blessings.
When I've observed my husband so courageously deal with his grief while working tirelessly to help kids overcome obstacles and be the best they can be....Yet he comes home and still manages to carry a smile and strums up more than enough energy for all of us, I count my blessings.
In Quinn's little four-year old mind, how he tries to understand why mom often cries over his big brother whom he was never able to meet. He runs to get me a kleenex and says, "Let me wipe your tears momma," I realize he is a gift from God and even wonder if Dakota conversed with God about sending him to us?? Someday I'll ask, and meanwhile I count my blessings.
I still have a healthy earthly father who is almost 92-years young! I have the privilege of talking to him each night. He encourages my heart with his wisdom and steadfastness. My brothers and sister didn't fall far from the tree as they are so caring and I know they wish they could just fix things for their baby sister! I count my blessings.
People who still talk about Dakota and share their stories whether big or small. Dakota was not a phantom but a real child who really LIVED for 15 short years leaving this world a little better than he found it! Please talk about him to me. I need you to help keep his memory alive....Although I'm not the same as I was before, it's okay that I have been broken for it has helped me rely more on God and less on self. Brokeness helps break a selfish nature (but I'm not fully tamed yet) while refocusing our eyes toward Heaven....Right where God wanted me to focus in the first place and for that I can count my blessings.
Family and friends who really try to understand and are faithful in realizing the pain doesn't ever go away. They still remember our tough dates, hold us up in love and prayer. Friends are some of our greatest resources and for that I can count my blessings.
So many children out there are suffering from cancer and other diseases. As of this writing, I think of the endless suffering going on in a country almost boarding our own....Haiti. I am so thankful for physical blessings of each day (food, water, shelter) and having a healthy family. It cannot be taken for granted. One way we can be certain that we don't is by thanking God for his graciousness every single day we draw breath. For His blessings of good health and provisions, I can count my blessings.
Yes, the realities of the fact that Dakota did suffer greatly and now living here without him still pains the innermost parts of our soul. Yet the scale still tips when we weigh in on our blessings and these are but a few. Hug your childen extra tight and continue sheparding their hearts while they are tender and teachable. May your scale tip over with blessings abound.
Happy Birthday from Earth to Paradise, Dakota! I Love you beyond description!
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
<><
P/S Take a moment to view our new promotional DVD for Keep the Faith Foundation (KTF) for Kids Fighting Cancer. A small clip of Dakota is at the beginning of the 5 minute DVD. Link at the bottom!
Friday, February 5, 2010 8:06 PM CST
I see blessings untold when I weigh the realities of our lives on a scale....
Today I picked out roses to lay on my son's grave for what would have been his 19th birthday this Sunday, February 7. As tears blurred my eyes on the drive home, I tried imagining things worse than not having my first-born son on his birthday. Momentarily, I weighed out the fact that I could be burdened with the grief of not knowing where my son is spending his eternal destination had I raised a wayward son who never had a relationship with Christ. Oh! the unrest of my soul. But God has spared me of that! I know my Dakota's soul is very much alive and I'm reassured with the full expectation of seeing him again, I can count my blessings.
Rightfully so, I've concerned myself over the scar of adversity that Riley has had to overcome in losing his older brother, hero, and best friend and how that is affecting his life. Then I see the pillar of strength that God has so lavished upon him with the young man he is becoming. I am so very proud of him, and I can count my blessings.
When I've observed my husband so courageously deal with his grief while working tirelessly to help kids overcome obstacles and be the best they can be....Yet he comes home and still manages to carry a smile and strums up more than enough energy for all of us, I count my blessings.
In Quinn's little four-year old mind, how he tries to understand why mom often cries over his big brother whom he was never able to meet. He runs to get me a kleenex and says, "Let me wipe your tears momma," I realize he is a gift from God and even wonder if Dakota conversed with God about sending him to us?? Someday I'll ask, and meanwhile I count my blessings.
I still have a healthy earthly father who is almost 92-years young! I have the privilege of talking to him each night. He encourages my heart with his wisdom and steadfastness. My brothers and sister didn't fall far from the tree as they are so caring and I know they wish they could just fix things for their baby sister! I count my blessings.
People who still talk about Dakota and share their stories whether big or small. Dakota was not a phantom but a real child who really LIVED for 15 short years leaving this world a little better than he found it! Please talk about him to me. I need you to help keep his memory alive....Although I'm not the same as I was before, it's okay that I have been broken for it has helped me rely more on God and less on self. Brokeness helps break a selfish nature (but I'm not fully tamed yet) while refocusing our eyes toward Heaven....Right where God wanted me to focus in the first place and for that I can count my blessings.
Family and friends who really try to understand and are faithful in realizing the pain doesn't ever go away. They still remember our tough dates, hold us up in love and prayer. Friends are some of our greatest resources and for that I can count my blessings.
So many children out there are suffering from cancer and other diseases. As of this writing, I think of the endless suffering going on in a country almost boarding our own....Haiti. I am so thankful for physical blessings of each day (food, water, shelter) and having a healthy family. It cannot be taken for granted. One way we can be certain that we don't is by thanking God for his graciousness every single day we draw breath. For His blessings of good health and provisions, I can count my blessings.
Yes, the realities of the fact that Dakota did suffer greatly and now living here without him still pains the innermost parts of our soul. Yet the scale still tips when we weigh in on our blessings and these are but a few. Hug your childen extra tight and continue sheparding their hearts while they are tender and teachable. May your scale tip over with blessings abound.
Happy Birthday from Earth to Paradise, Dakota! I Love you beyond description!
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
<><
Friday, February 5, 2010 8:06 PM CST
I see blessings untold when I weigh the realities of our lives on a scale....
Today I picked out roses to lay on my son's grave for what would have been his 19th birthday this Sunday, February 7. As tears blurred my eyes on the drive home, I tried imagining things worse than not having my first-born son on his birthday. Momentarily, I weighed out the fact that I could be burdened with the grief of not knowing where my son is spending his eternal destination had I raised a wayward son who never had a relationship with Christ. Oh! the unrest of my soul. But God has spared me of that! I know my Dakota's soul is very much alive and I'm reassured with the full expectation of seeing him again, I can count my blessings.
Rightfully so, I've concerned myself over the scar of adversity that Riley has had to overcome in losing his older brother, hero, and best friend and how that is affecting his life. Then I see the pillar of strength that God has so lavished upon him with the young man he is becoming. I am so very proud of him, and I can count my blessings.
When I've observed my husband so courageously deal with his grief while working tirelessly to help kids overcome obstacles and be the best they can be....Yet he comes home and still manages to carry a smile and strums up more than enough energy for all of us, I count my blessings.
In Quinn's little four-year old mind, how he tries to understand why mom often cries over his big brother whom he was never able to meet. He runs to get me a kleenex and says, "Let me wipe your tears momma," I realize he is a gift from God and even wonder if Dakota conversed with God about sending him to us?? Someday I'll ask, and meanwhile I count my blessings.
I still have a healthy earthly father who is almost 92-years young! I have the privilege of talking to him each night. He encourages my heart with his wisdom and steadfastness. My brothers and sister didn't fall far from the tree as they are so caring and I know they wish they could just fix things for their baby sister! I count my blessings.
People who still talk about Dakota and share their stories whether big or small. Dakota was not a phantom but a real child who really LIVED for 15 short years leaving this world a little better than he found it! Please talk about him to me. I need you to help keep his memory alive....Although I'm not the same as I was before, it's okay that I have been broken for it has helped me rely more on God and less on self. Brokeness helps break a selfish nature (but I'm not fully tamed yet) while refocusing our eyes toward Heaven....Right where God wanted me to focus in the first place and for that I can count my blessings.
Family and friends who really try to understand and are faithful in realizing the pain doesn't ever go away. They still remember our tough dates, hold us up in love and prayer. Friends are some of our greatest resources and for that I can count my blessings.
So many children out there are suffering from cancer and other diseases. As of this writing, I think of the endless suffering going on in a country almost boarding our own....Haiti. I am so thankful for physical blessings of each day (food, water, shelter) and having a healthy family. It cannot be taken for granted. One way we can be certain that we don't is by thanking God for his graciousness every single day we draw breath. For His blessings of good health and provisions, I can count my blessings.
Yes, the realities of the fact that he spent so many of his years suffering and now living here without him still pains the innermost parts of our soul. Yet the scale still tips when we weigh in on our blessings and these are but a few. Hug your childen extra tight and continue sheparding their hearts while they are tender and teachable. May your scale tip over with blessings abound.
Happy Birthday from Earth to Paradise, Dakota! I Love you beyond description!
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
<><
Friday, February 5, 2010 8:06 PM CST
I see blessings untold when I weigh the realities of our lives on a scale....
Today I picked out roses to lay on my son's grave for what would have been his 19th birthday this Sunday, February 7. As tears blurred my eyes on the drive home, I tried imagining things worse than not having my first-born son on his birthday. Momentarily, I weighed out the fact that I could be burdened with the grief of not knowing where my son is spending his eternal destination had I raised a wayward son who never had a relationship with Christ. Oh! the unrest of my soul. But God has spared me of that! I know my Dakota's soul is very much alive and I'm reassured with the full expectation of seeing him again, I can count my blessings.
Rightfully so, I've concerned myself over the scar of adversity that Riley has had to overcome in losing his older brother, hero, and best friend and how that is affecting his life. Then I see the pillar of strength that God has so lavished upon him with the young man he is becoming. I am so very proud of him, and I can count my blessings.
When I've observed my husband so courageously deal with his grief while working tirelessly to help kids overcome obstacles and be the best they can be....Yet he comes home and still manages to carry a smile and strums up more than enough energy for all of us, I count my blessings.
In Quinn's little four-year old mind, how he tries to understand why mom often cries over his big brother whom he was never able to meet. He runs to get me a kleenex and says, "Let me wipe your tears momma," I realize he is a gift from God and even wonder if Dakota conversed with God about sending him to us?? Someday I'll ask, and meanwhile I count my blessings.
I still have a healthy earthly father who is almost 92-years young! I have the privilege of talking to him each night. He encourages my heart with his wisdom and steadfastness. My brothers and sister didn't fall far from the tree as they are so caring and I know they wish they could just fix things for their baby sister! I count my blessings.
People who still talk about Dakota and share their stories whether big or small. Dakota was not a phantom but a real child who really LIVED for 15 short years leaving this world a little better than he found it! Please talk about him to me. I need you to help keep his memory alive....Although I'm not the same as I was before, it's okay that I have been broken for it has helped me rely more on God and less on self. Brokeness helps break a selfish nature (but I'm not fully tamed yet) while refocusing our eyes toward Heaven....Right where God wanted me to focus in the first place and for that I can count my blessings.
Family and friends who really try to understand and are faithful in realizing the pain doesn't ever go away, and still remember our tough dates, hold us up in love and prayer. Friends are some of our greatest resources and for that I can count my blessings.
So many children out there are suffering from cancer and other diseases. As of this writing, I think of the endless suffering going on in a country almost boarding our own....Haiti. I am so thankful for physical blessings of each day (food, water, shelter) and having a healthy family. It cannot be taken for granted. One way we can be certain that we don't is by thanking God for his graciousness every single day we draw breath. For His blessings of good health and provisions, I can count my blessings.
Yes, the realities of the fact that he spent so many of his years suffering and now living here without him still pains the innermost parts of our soul. Yet the scale still tips when we weigh in on our blessings and these are but a few. Hug your childen extra tight and continue sheparding their hearts while they are tender and teachable. May your scale tip over with blessings abound.
Happy Birthday from Earth to Paradise, Dakota! I Love you beyond description!
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
<><
Friday, February 5, 2010 8:06 PM CST
I see blessings untold when I weigh the realities of our lives on a scale....
Today I picked out roses to lay on my son's grave for what would have been his 19th birthday this Sunday, February 7. As tears blurred my eyes on the drive home, I tried imagining things worse than not having my first-born son on his birthday. Momentarily, I weighed out the fact that I could be burdened with the grief of not knowing where my son is spending his eternal destination had I raised a wayward son who never had a relationship with Christ. Oh! the unrest of my soul. But God has spared me of that! I know my Dakota's soul is very much alive and I'm reassured with the full expectation of seeing him again, I can count my blessings.
Rightfully so, I've concerned myself over the scar of adversity that Riley has had to overcome in losing his older brother, hero, and best friend and how that is affecting his life. Then I see the pillar of strength that God has so lavished upon him with the young man he is becoming. I am so very proud of him, and I can count my blessings.
When I've observed my husband so courageously deal with his grief while working tirelessly to help kids overcome obstacles and be the best they can be....Yet he comes home and still manages to carry a smile and strums up more than enough energy for all of us, I count my blessings.
In Quinn's little four-year old mind, how he tries to understand why mom often cries over his big brother whom he was never able to meet. He runs to get me a kleenex and says, "Let me wipe your tears momma," I realize he is a gift from God and even wonder if Dakota conversed with God about sending him to us?? Someday I'll ask and I count my blessings.
I still have a healthy earthly father who is almost 92-years young! I have the privilege of talking to him each night. He encourages my heart with his wisdom and steadfastness. My brothers and sister didn't fall far from the tree as they are so caring and I know they wish they could just fix things for their baby sister! I count my blessings.
People who still talk about Dakota and share their stories whether big or small. Dakota was not a phantom but a real child who really LIVED for 15 short years leaving this world a little better than he found it! Please talk about him to me. I need you to help keep his memory alive....Although I'm not the same as I was before, it's okay that I have been broken for it has helped me rely more on God and less on self. Brokeness helps break a selfish nature (but I'm not fully tamed yet) while refocusing our eyes toward Heaven....Right where God wanted me to focus in the first place and for that I can count my blessings.
Family and friends who really try to understand and are faithful in realizing the pain doesn't ever go away, and still remember our tough dates, hold us up in love and prayer. Friends are some of our greatest resources and for that I can count my blessings.
So many children out there are suffering from cancer and other diseases. As of this writing, I think of the endless suffering going on in a country almost boarding our own....Haiti. I am so thankful for physical blessings of each day (food, water, shelter) and having a healthy family. It cannot be taken for granted. One way we can be certain that we don't is by thanking God for his graciousness every single day we draw breath. For His blessings of good health and provisions, I can count my blessings.
Yes, the realities of the fact that he spent so many of his years suffering and now living here without him still pains the innermost parts of our soul. Yet the scale still tips when we weigh in on our blessings and these are but a few. Hug your childen extra tight and continue sheparding their hearts while they are tender and teachable. May your scale tip over with blessings abound.
Happy Birthday from Earth to Paradise, Dakota! I Love you beyond description!
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
<><
Friday, February 5, 2010 8:06 PM CST
I see blessings untold when I weigh the realities of our lives on a scale....
Today I picked out roses to lay on my son's grave for what would have been his 19th birthday this Sunday, February 7. As tears blurred my eyes on the drive home, I tried imagining things worse than not having my first-born son on his birthday. Momentarily, I weighed out the fact that I could be burdened with the grief of not knowing where my son is spending his eternal destination had I raised a wayward son who never had a relationship with Christ. Oh! the unrest of my soul. But God has spared me of that! I know my Dakota's soul is very much alive and I'm reassured with the full expectation of seeing him again, I can count my blessings.
Concerning myself over the scar of adversity that Riley has had to overcome in losing his older brother, hero, and best friend. Then I see the pillar of strength that God has so lavished upon him with the young man he is becoming. I am so very proud of him, and I can count my blessings.
When I've observed my husband so courageously deal with his grief while working tirelessly to help kids overcome obstacles and be the best they can be....Yet he comes home and still manages to carry a smile and strums up more than enough energy for all of us, I count my blessings.
In Quinn's little four-year old mind, how he tries to understand why mom often cries over his big brother whom he was never able to meet. He runs to get me a kleenex and says, "Let me wipe your tears momma," I realize he is a gift from God and even wonder if Dakota conversed with God about sending him to us?? Someday I'll ask and I count my blessings.
I still have a healthy earthly father who is almost 92-years young! I have the privilege of talking to him each night. He encourages my heart with his wisdom and steadfastness. My brothers and sister didn't fall far from the tree as they are so caring and I know they wish they could just fix things for their baby sister! I count my blessings.
People who still talk about Dakota and share their stories whether big or small. Dakota was not a phantom but a real child who really LIVED for 15 short years leaving this world a little better than he found it! Please talk about him to me. I need you to help keep his memory alive....Although I'm not the same as I was before, it's okay that I have been broken for it has helped me rely more on God and less on self. Brokeness helps break a selfish nature (but I'm not fully tamed yet) while refocusing our eyes toward Heaven....Right where God wanted me to focus in the first place and for that I can count my blessings.
Family and friends who really try to understand and are faithful in realizing the pain doesn't ever go away, and still remember our tough dates, hold us up in love and prayer. Friends are some of our greatest resources and for that I can count my blessings.
So many children out there are suffering from cancer and other diseases. As of this writing, I think of the endless suffering going on in a country almost boarding our own....Haiti. I am so thankful for physical blessings of each day (food, water, shelter) and having a healthy family. It cannot be taken for granted. One way we can be certain that we don't is by thanking God for his graciousness every single day we draw breath. For His blessings of good health and provisions, I can count my blessings.
Yes, the realities of the fact that he spent so many of his years suffering and now living here without him still pains the innermost parts of our soul. Yet the scale still tips when we weigh in on our blessings and these are but a few. Hug your childen extra tight and continue sheparding their hearts while they are tender and teachable. May your scale tip over with blessings abound.
Happy Birthday from Earth to Paradise, Dakota! I Love you beyond description!
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
<><
Thursday, November 12, 2009 4 PM
I miss Dakota!!!!!!!
Dakota's senior year was almost more than I could bear. I can't believe I haven't updated in over 8 months. My time is limited today, but I have so much on my heart. I'll NEVER get over losing Dakota, I have to learn to live with the deep heartache. Only seeing his face someday in HEAVEN can cure this churning within my soul. I long for that day.
I shared this at our support group for bereaved parents last Monday night. I want to share it here also because I know many of us still follow one another's journey out of a common bond of having lost a child. As the holiday season rapidly approaches, may this bring you a little comfort to help you survive the holidays. Please consider joining the support group especially designed for parents like you and me on Monday Dec. 14 as we share in a candlelighting ceremony in memory of our children and how they made this world a better place. Notice details below, but please shoot me an email if you would consider being my special guest for the night as we remember our children......hawkins980@centurytel.net
We have parents who have lost their children not only from a long term illness, but through tragedies such as car accidents, suicide, murder, and other accidents. Someone can relate to your call for help. We'll begin a new study in Jan. 2010.
Survival for the Holidays
1. Release those endorphins (enhances emotional/mental well-being therefore fighting depression) by getting vigorous exercise before, during, and after the holidays.
2. Like a birthday or anniversary of death, the anticipation of the day can be worse than the actual day itself. Keep this in the forefront of your mind!
3. Share w/ a support group during the holiday season and have a special tribute unique to your child.
4. EXTRA prayer, quiet meditation, and reading of God's word for strength, peace and comfort.
5. Light a candle in memory of your child w/ the entire family so they can help understand the reflection in your own heart. Voice to them your appreciation for honoring your child's memory. Have a special prayer.
6. If you're not in church, consider that NOW may be the time. What a positive step our child would want us to take!
7. Know it is okay to cry. It cleanses us and God "records" each tear shed. Ps. 56:8
8. It's okay to laugh...It's "good medicine!" Too much grief "dries up the bones." Pr. 17:22
9. Serve your child's favorite dish as a tribute to your child's memory. Display a picture of your child smiling and having fun!
10. Consider the less fortunate all around us...sick, elderly, blind, lame, homeless, orphans, unemployed...Do something for them and your load will be lightened!
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
***************************************
March 10, 2009 10:55 PM
REDEEMING THE TEARS
..............A Journey Through Grief and Loss
~An 8-month community Bible study & support for bereaved parents
~The second Monday of each month beginning April 13, 2009
~Mount Carmel Baptist Church Youth Building in Cabot, AR in the Lodge Room
~To inquire or register, call MCBC at 843-6222
~Leaders: Laura Langstaff, Kathy Hatcher, & Sharon Hawkins
Our Road Map.....
Positioning the Loss in My Life
Listening to My Heart
Realigning My Heart
Accepting My Journey
Connecting with Help: God
Connecting with Help: Community
Embracing Redemption
Small group connection at the end of each session.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009 10:55 PM CDT
REDEEMING THE TEARS
..............A Journey Through Grief and Loss
~An 8-week community Bible study & support for bereaved parents
~The second Tuesday of each month beginning April 14, 2009
~Mount Carmel Baptist Church Youth Building in Cabot, AR in the Lodge Room
~To inquire or register, call MCBC at 843-6222
~Leaders: Laura Langstaff, Kathy Hatcher, & Sharon Hawkins
Tuesday, March 10, 2009 10:55 PM CDT
REDEEMING THE TEARS
..............A Journey Through Grief and Loss
~An 8-week community Bible study & support for bereaved parents
~The second Tuesday of each month beginning April 14, 2009
~Mount Carmel Baptist Church Youth Building in Cabot, AR in the Lodge Room
~To inquire or register, call MCBC at 843-6222
~Leaders: Laura Langstaff, Kathy Hatcher, & Sharon Hawkins
Tuesday, March 3, 2009 6:28 AM CST
An Hour of Inspiration it was....A special thank you for the inspiration that the following people brought to our hearts last night. We truly felt God's presence as He used you through your words, songs, and attendance to spread motivation,enthusiasm, smiles, tears, and sweet memories to our audience.
Our honored guests were: Hayden Balgavy, Anthony Hoover, Lis Geoghegan, Tiffany Still, Brent Summerhill, Samuel Warren, and Rocky Stotts - Moore.
Thanks to all the Pennies from Heaven volunteers who have given their love, time, & committment to KTF's ministry.
We could not do such a vast campaign without your help! You are VITAL to this ministry.
I thank my husband, Riley and Quinn who are always there with their KTF shirts on ready to help! I know Dakota smiles down on his family and soooo proud of his heroes!
Dakota's friends have remained faithful to our family throughout the years....He was so blessed with the best friends in the world. I dare not list names here with fear I will inadvertently leave someone's name off.
Thank you to the Cabot Veterans's Park Community Center for being so congenial and helpful to all of us. We were so blessed to have such a nice place to meet. You're awesome Larry Tarrant!
For all our churches, schools, businesses, individuals, and organizations that are hosting a container; we thank you!
Keep the Faith!
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Pennies from Heaven Kick-off; An Hour of Inspiration
This Thursday, March 5, 2009 6:30-7:30 PM
Cabot Veterans Park Community Center Gym (Across from CHS)
Theme: Character, Perseverance, Faith, Hope, & Love
Featured Guests/Speakers - Anthony Hoover (A cancer survivor and senior at CHS); Lis Geoghegan (local songwriter and inspirational soloist); Hayden & Jane Balgavy (A senior & one of Dakota's best friends from elementary days. His mother, Jane is Forensics coach & leader for Cabot Schools); and Brent Summerhill (pastor at Faith). A fun coin toss game will be available to help entertain the kids. All coins will go to benefit KTF.
Your entire family is invited for "an hour of inspiration" sponsored by the Keep the Faith Foundation for Kids Fighting Cancer (KTF). We encourage you to wear your KTF button, tshirt, etc.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009 6:28 AM CST
Pennies from Heaven Kick-off; An Hour of Inspiration
This Thursday, March 5, 2009 6:30-7:30 PM
Cabot Veterans Park Gym (Across from CHS)
Theme: Perseverance, Faith, Hope, & Love
Featuring - Lis Geoghegan (local songwriter and inpirational soloist); Hayden & Jane Balgavy (A senior this year, Hayden is also one of Dakota's best friends from elementary days. His mother, Jane is Forensic's coach & leader for Cabot Schools); and Brent Summerhill (pastor at Faith). A coin toss game will be available for kids of every age.
Your entire family is invited for "an hour of inspiration" sponsored by the Keep the Faith Foundation for Kids Fighting Cancer (KTF).
Sunday, March 1, 2009 6:47 PM CST
Mon. March 2, 2009 7:10 AM
Today's calendar: God has promised strength for the day, rest for the labor, light for the way, grace for the trials, help from above, unfailing sympathy; undying love. -Annie Flint
As Brad, Jill, and Bethany Sullivan lay Hannah to rest Monday (tomorrow), please lift them up to the Father.
I've lost my fervour for writing lately. The words just won't come. Today I visited Dakota's grave as I often do. As I sank in the driver's seat after walking from his grave, I asked God to just speak to me in any way He saw fit.
In my glovebox I opened up Dakota's devotion book entitled, Promises. Dakota had delicately bookmarked the pages with a kleenex tab he had torn out from his last stay at Arkansas Children's Hospital. The topic was "Emotionally Healing, When My Heart is Broken" and read......
"My heart may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever." John 16:13
"But you, O Sovereign Lord, deal well with me for your name's sake, out of the goodness of your love, deliver me. For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me." Psalm 109:21,22
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18
During song service today at church, I purposely hid because I knew I was not strong enough to emotionally handle the songs that were being sung. As I sat in an undisclosed location at church, I opened my Bible. Again, God was so faithful and spoke, "By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made STRONG. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has given this COMPLETE healing to him...." Acts 3:16
I quietly thanked God for Dakota's complete healing and Hannah's too.
No matter what you're facing, open up God's word (and keep reading it) until He speaks to you. He is FAITHFUL to tell us just what we need to hear and His timely word is is always PERFECT.
Keep the Faith -
Thursday, Feb. 26 8:19 PM CST
Hannah Sullivan, 17 year-old daughter of Brad & Jill Sullivan, passed away this afternoon after a year long fight with brain cancer. The Sullivan's are formerly of Cabot. Please be in prayer for this family who has shown TREMENDOUS strength and faith.
"Never ask to know for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for me....One man's death diminishes mankind and is a univeral loss. No man is an island entire of itself, every man is a piece of the continent...." John Donne
I get chills up my spine to think how near the angels of heaven were this very day as they took Hannah home to be with the Father. "To be absent from the body is to be at HOME with the LORD." 2 Cor. 5:8
**************************************
Save those pennies for Keep the Faith Foundation (KTF) for kids and their families fighting cancer! A million pennies in 100 days can help a lot of families during hard times.
***************************************
A wise woman woman who was traveling through the mountains found a precious stone in the stream. The next day she met another traveler who was hungry, and the wise woman opened her bag to share her food. The hungry traveler saw the precious stone and asked the woman to give it to him. She did so without hesitation. The traveler left rejoicing in his good fortune. He knew the stone was worth enough to get him security for a lifetime. But a few days later he came back to return the stone to the wise woman.
"I've been thinking," he said, "I know how valuable the stone is, but I give it back to you in the hope that you can give me something even more precious. Give me what you have within you that enabled you to give me the stone."
The Wise Woman's Stone
Author Unknown
"A man has made at least a start on discovering the meaning of human life when he plants shade trees under which he knows full well he will never sit."
D. Elton Trueblood
"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers for thereby some have entertained angels unaware."
Hebrews 13:2
"How far you go in life depends on you being tender to the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in life you will have been all of these."
George Washington Carver
"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."
Leo Buscaglia
"Give thanks for unknown blessings already on their way."
Author Unknown
"Assuredly I say you, inasmuch as you did it to the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."
Jesus - Matthew 25:40
Wednesday, February 11, 2009 2:45 PM CST
I just want to say thank you for those who remembered Dakota's birthday. Dakota LIVED and as a momma, I never want people to forget him. It still warms my heart to see an entry in the guestbook or to receive an email from you! It helps me to keep on keeping on!
Keep saving your change for the Pennies from Heaven campaign to benefit Keep the Faith Foundation (KTF) for children and their families fighting cancer!
***************************************
Feb. 5, 2009 2PM CST
The imagination is a powerful phenomenon. While most realities of heaven remain secretive with glories we can only imagine, life awards us daily with seasonal previews of his goodness and grace that seem heavenly.
...A magnificent sunrise, a breath-taking sunset, the delicacy of a rose, the sound of a stream, the color of a single leaf, the face of an innocent child, the contentment of a teenager, a mate who loves God and family, a dedicated family, faithful friends....
There are moments lately that I feel the presence of the one I love and lost so tenderly around me. Could it be him personally delivering a blessing from God? Or perhaps he had prayed those blessings I'm now receiving years in advance?....
...Or seemingly the brush of angels' wings when I dream. My loved one is almost in reach....An enduring strength, a perfect picture of health glows upon his smiling face as he moves in the sun.... No tubes, no ports, no hinderances, and a head full of beautiful hair flying as he runs against the wind.
Such little time to dream and I suddenly awaken to reality, shaken that he is not there. Or had he been in spirit....Would God so allow it? Nevertheless, I thank God for a dream that lasted a little while, especially for the glimpse of a cured child. He is not yet in reach, but someday he will be.
In my feeble mind, I truly cannot fathom the realities of heaven - I can only imagine....
"No eye has seen, no ear has heard and no mind has imagined the things that God has prepared for those who love him." I Corinthians 2:9
"I am leaving you with a gift: peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled and afraid. Remember what I told you. I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really love me you will be happpy for me, for now I can go to the Father who is greater than I am. I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do yo will believe in me."
-Jesus (John 14:27-29)
"I love that smile, mom!"
-Riley age 9-15
"You don't please God when you worry, mom!"
-Dakota age 11-15
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
-Psalm 34:18
"Even in the winter, even in the midst of the storm, the sun is still there. Somewhere, up about the clouds , it still shines and warms and pulls at the life buried deep inside the brown braches and frozen earth. The sun is there! Spring will come! The clouds cannot stay forever."
-Gloria Gaither
"My family and I have been loved, we've been blessed!"
-Dakota age 14 (The day before leaving for Jerusalem)
"Life is a marathon and we're going to finish the race."
-Dad
"God is not merely concerned with results, but with character - and few things produce character like learning how to wait."
-Gary Thomas
"I just want to be with Jesus."
-Dakota age 15 (A few days before his death)
"Maturity in our faith is no guarentee that we'll experience less suffering. In fact, it may mean we will experience more."
-Gary Thomas
"These things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely the time approaches when the vision will be fullfilled. If it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!" says the Lord.
-Habbukuk 2:3
"I just want to be a good example to my teammates and others whether I'm on the field or off. If I can do that and lead others to Christ, then I've been successful."
-Tim TeBow
"Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the Lord delivers him in times of trouble."
-Psalms 41:1
"For strengths to bear is found in duty alone, and he is blest indeed who learns to make the joy of others cure his own heartache."
-Drake
"A man's doubts and fears are his worst enemies."
-William Wrigley Jr.
"Heroes are not giant statues framed against a red sky. They are pople who say:'This is my community, and it's my responsiblility to make it better.'"
-Tom McCall
"Life's failures and dissappointments are mere stepping stones to a spiritual awakening."
-Mom
Through life's storms and sunny days, "Keep the Faith"
Tuesday, February 3, 2009 10:44 AM CST
"I love that smile, mom!"
-Riley
"You don't please God when you worry, mom!"
-Dakota
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
-Psalm 34:18
"Even in the winter, even in the midst of the storm, the sun is still there. Somewhere, up about the clouds , it still shines and warms and pulls at the life buried deep inside the brown braches and frozen earth. The sun is there! Spring will come! The clouds cannot stay forever."
-Gloria Gaither
"My family and I have been loved, we've been blessed!"
-Dakota
"Life is a marathon and we're going to finish the race."
-Dad
"God is not merely concerned with results, but with character - and few things produce character like learning how to wait."
-Gary Thomas
"Maturity in our faith is no guarentee that we'll experience less suffering. In fact, it may mean we will experience more."
-Gary Thomas
"These things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely the time approaches when the vision will be fullfilled. If it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!" says the Lord.
-Habbukuk 2:3
"I just want to be a good example to my teammates and others whether I'm on the field or off. If I can do that and lead others to Christ, then I've been successful."
-Tim TeBow
"Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the Lord delivers him in times of trouble."
-Psalms 41:1
"For strengths to bear is found in duty alone, and he is blest indeed who learns to make the joy of others cure his own heartache."
-Drake
"A man's doubts and fears are his worst enemies."
-William Wrigley Jr.
"Heroes are not giant statues framed against a red sky. They are pople who say:'This is my community, and it's my responsiblility to make it better.'"
-Tom McCall
"Life's failures and dissappointments are mere stepping stones to a spirtual awakening."
-Sharon
Keep the Faith -
Friday, January 23, 2009 9:10 PM CST
The Keep the Faith Foundation for Kids Fighting Cancer (KTF) was established in January of 2007. From electric bills, mortgage payments, insurance premiums, extended stays, etc. KTF has been BLESSED to help over 50 children and their families as they struggle financially from unexpected expenses, an income loss so a parent can be at home with a sick child, or an overpowering bill that cancer can bring.
When a referral is given to us, our first step is to pray for this child specifically and for the needs of their family. We send each child a personalized, monogrammed blanket and a Bible that is age appropriate. We follow-up by sending cards of encouragement, leave uplifting messages on websites, and phone calls when appropriate. While all families may not need financial assistance, they seem to always welcome prayers and encouragement.
Once an application process is completed and all pertinent information is reviewed, our KTF Board of Directors casts a vote based on the information received. All bills are paid directly to the creditor to ensure payment in a timely manner, then the family is notified. While the burdens that childhood cancer bring can never be fully lifted, it does relieve a little of the stress even if only for a day.
KTF could not function without the help of community such as our churches, schools, business, individual contributors, and civic organizations. Cabot is the heart of our ministry. When a need arises, our community always proves itself faithful. We reach from our community outward. Currently, we know of 6 children within our community who are fighting cancer. We assist children and their families all over Arkansas.
Our second annual "Pennies from Heaven" campaign debuts March 5 - June 12, to raise "a million pennies in 100 days!" As always, we want to remind you that every penny does count and KTF appreciates your prayers and support again this year. We exceeded our goal last year and many families were the recipients of your generosity. Jesus said it BEST over 2000 years ago, "Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My bretheren, you did it to Me." Matthew 25:40
For more on "Pennies from Heaven," see the link at the bottom. Need a little inspiration for another year God has blessed us with? Why not read or re-read "The Dash" also on the bottom of the screen.
May God bless and keep you in His will.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
Friday, January 23, 2009 9:10 PM CST
The Keep the Faith Foundation for Kids Fighting Cancer (KTF)was established in January of 2007. From electric bills, mortgage payments, insurance premiums, extended stays, etc. KTF has been BLESSED to help over 50 children and their families as they struggle financially from extra expenses, job losses, and overpowering bills that cancer can bring.
When a referral is given to us, our first step is to pray for this child specifically and for the needs of their family. We send each child a personalized, monogrammed blanket and a Bible that is age appropriate. We follow-up by sending cards of encouragement, leave uplifting messages on websites, and phone calls when appropriate. While all families may not need financial assistance, they seem to always welcome prayers and encouragement.
Once an application process is completed and a copy of a bill is in hand, our KTF Board of Directors casts a vote based on the information received. All bills are paid directly to the creditor to ensure payment in a timely manner, then the family is notified. While the burdens that childhood cancer brings can never be fully lifted, it does relieve a little of the stress even if only for a day.
KTF could not function without the help of community such as our churches, schools, business, individual contributors, and civic organizations. Cabot is the heart of our ministry. When a need arises, our community always proves itself faithful. We reach from our community outward. Currently, we know of 6 children within our community who are fighting cancer. We assist children and their families all over Arkansas.
Our second annual "Pennies from Heaven" campaign debutes March 5 - June 12, to raise "a million pennies in 100 days!" As always, we want to remind you that every penny does count and KTF appreciates your prayers and support again this year. We exceeded our goal last year and many families were the recipients of your generosity. Jesus said it BEST over 2000 years ago, "Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My bretheren, you did it to Me." Matthew 25:40
For more on "Pennies from Heaven," see the link at the bottom. Do you have a "groaning" (God knew we would) in your spirit that life just can't satisy? Do you need a little inspiration to live for God this new year? Why not read or re-read "The Dash" also on the bottom of the screen.
May God bless and keep you in His will.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
Friday, January 23, 2009 9:10 PM CST
The Keep the Faith Foundation for Kids Fighting Cancer (KTF)was established in January of 2007. From electric bills, mortgage payments, to insurance premiums, KTF has been blessed to help over 50 children and their families as they struggle finacially from the extra expenses, job losses, and overpowering bills that cancer can bring.
When a referral is given to us, our first step is to pray for this child specifically and for the needs of their family. We send each child a personalized, monogrammed blanket and a Bible that is age appropriate. We follow-up by sending cards of encouragement, leave uplifting messages on websites, and phone calls when appropriate. While all families may not need financial assistance, they seem to always welcome prayers and encouragement.
Once an application process is completed and a copy of a bill is in hand, our KTF Board of Directors casts a vote based on the information received. All bills are paid directly to the creditor to ensure payment in a timely manner, then the family is notified. While the burdens that childhood cancer brings can never be fully lifted, it does relieve a little of the stress even if only for a day.
KTF could not function without the help of community such as our churches, schools, business, individual contributors, and civic organizations. Cabot is the heart of our ministry. When a need arises, our community always proves itself faithful. We reach from our community outward. Currently, we know of 6 children within our community who are fighting cancer.
Our second annual "Pennies from Heaven" campaign debutes March 5 - June 12, to raise "a million pennies in 100 days!" As always, we want to remind you that every penny does count and KTF appreciates your prayers and support again this year. We exceeded our goal last year and many families were the recipients of your generosity. Jesus said it BEST over 2000 years ago, "Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My bretheren, you did it to Me." Matthew 25:40
For more on "Pennies from Heaven," see the link at the bottom. Do you have a "groaning" (God knew we would) in your spirit that life just can't satisy? Do you need a little inspiration to live for God this new year? Why not read or re-read "The Dash" also on the bottom of the screen.
May God bless and keep you in His will.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
Thursday, December 18, 2008 8:46 AM CST
In his 'Rural Funerals', Washington Irving beautifully wrote of the memories of loved ones we have lost as he gazed across rural England.
"The fixed and unchanging features of the country also perpetuate the memory of the friend with whom we once enjoyed them, who was the companion of our most retired walks, and gave animation to every lonely scene. His idea is associated with every charm of Nature; we hear his voice in the echo which he once delighted to awaken; his spirit haunts the grove which he once frequented; we think of him in the wild upland solitute or amidst the pensive beauty of the valley. In the fresheness of joyous morning we remember his beaming smiles and bounding gayety; and when sober evening returns with its gathering shadows and subduing quiet, we call to mind many a twilight hour of gentle talk and sweet-souled melancholy...
"The sorrow of the dead is the only sorrow from which we refuse to be divorced. Every other wound we seek to heal, every other affliction to forget; but this wound we consider it a duty to keep open, this affliction we cherish and brood over in solitude. Where is the mother who would willingly forget the infant that perished like a blossom from her arms thought every recollection is a pang? Where is the child that would willingly forget the the most tender of parents, though to remember be but to lament? Who, even in the hour of agony, would forget the friend over whom he mourns? Who, even when the tomb is closing upon the remains of her he most loved, when he feels his heart, as it were, crushed in the closing of its portal, would accept of consolation that must be brought by forgetfulness? No, the love which survives the tomb is the one of the noblest attributes of the soul. If it has its woes, it has likewise its delights; and when the overwhelming burst of the grief is calmed into the gentle tear of recollection, when the sudden anguish and the pensive meditation on all that it was in the days of its loveliness, who would root out such a sorrow from the heart? Though it may sometimes throw a passing cloud over the bright exchange it even for the song of pleasure or the burst of revelry? No, there is a voice from he tomb sweeter than song. There is a remembrance of the dead to which we turn even from the charms of the living."
I dedicate this memoir in honor of our courageous son, Dakota, who has been in the presence of the Father for over two and a half years. To our precious Baby Hawkins who went to be with the Father in Oct. of 1998. To my dear mother who passed suddenly in Oct. of 1999 and Henry's wonderful mother who passed in 1996. I dedicate this to all of the incredible children/teenagers we've lost slowly from cancer. I dedicate this to our prized children/teenagers we've lost suddenly in our community. Whether you have lost a child, spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, grandparent, other relative, or friend...You can somehow relate to the words' of legendary Washington Irving. Please feel free to leave an entry in memory of someone you love that this memoir brings to mind. We can all honor their memory and lift your name up in prayer over this season of remembrance and the year to come.
May we remember the greatest gift of all this season, Jesus Christ. Without His birth we couldn't celebrate His resurrection. His star still shines....
"Keep the Faith" in all things,
Sharon
Thursday, December 18, 2008 8:46 AM CST
In his 'Rural Funerals', Washington Irving beautifully wrote of the memories of loved ones we have lost as he gazed across rural England.
"The fixed and unchanging features of the country also perpetuate the memory of the friend with whom we once enjoyed them, who was the companion of our most retired walks, and gave animation to every lonely scene. His idea is associated with every charm of Nature; we hear his voice in the echo which he once delighted to awaken; his spirit haunts the grove which he once frequented; we think of him in the wild upland solitute or amidst the pensive beauty of the valley. In the fresheness of joyous morning we remember his beaming smiles and bounding gayety; and when sober evening returns with its gathering shadows and subduing quiet, we call to mind many a twilight hour of gentle talk and sweet-souled melancholy...
"The sorrow of the dead is the only sorrow from which we refuse to be divorced. Every other wound we seek to heal, every other affliction to forget; but this wound we consider it a duty to keep open, this affliction we cherish and brood over in solitude. Where is the mother who would willingly forget the infant that perished like a blossom from her arms thought every recollection is a pang? Where is the child that would willingly forget the the most tender of parents, though to remember be but to lament? Who, even in the hour of agony, would forget the friend over whom he mourns? Who, even when the tomb is closing upon the remains of her he most loved, when he feels his heart, as it were, crushed in the closing of its portal, would accept of consolation that must be brought by forgetfulness? No, the love which survives the tomb is the one of the noblest attributes of the soul. If it has its woes, it has likewise its delights; and when the overwhelming burst of the grief is calmed into the gentle tear of recollection, when the sudden anguish and the pensive meditation on all that it was in the days of its loveliness, who would root out such a sorrow from the heart? Though it may sometimes throw a passing cloud over the bright exchange it even for the song of pleasure or the burst of revelry? No, there is a voice from he tomb sweeter than song. There is a remembrance of the dead to which we turn even from the charms of the living."
I dedicate this memoir in honor of our courageous son, Dakota, who has been in the presence of the Father for over two and a half years. To our precious Baby Hawkins who went to be with the Father in Oct. of 1998. To my dear mother who passed suddenly in Oct. of 1999 and Henry's wonderful mother who passed in 1996. I dedicate this to all of the incredible children/teenagers we've lost from caner. I dedicate this to our prized children/teenagers we've lost in our community. Whether you have lost a child, spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, grandparent, other relative, or friend...You can somehow relate to the words' of legendary Washington Irving. Please feel free to leave an entry in memory of someone you love that this memoir brings to mind. We can all honor their memory and lift your name up in prayer over this season of remembrance and the year to come.
May we remember the greatest gift of all this season, Jesus Christ. Without His birth we couldn't celebrate His resurrection. His star still shines....
"Keep the Faith" in all things,
Sharon
Thursday, December 18, 2008 8:46 AM CST
In his 'Rural Funerals', Washington Irving beautifully wrote of the memories of loved ones we have lost as he gazed across rural England.
"The fixed and unchanging features of the country also perpetuate the memory of the friend with whom we once enjoyed them, who was the companion of our most retired walks, and gave animation to every lonely scene. His idea is associated with every charm of Nature; we hear his voice in the echo which he once delighted to awaken; his spirit haunts the grove which he once frequented; we think of him in the wild upland solitute or amidst the pensive beauty of the valley. In the fresheness of joyous morning we remember his beaming smiles and bounding gayety; and when sober evening returns with its gathering shadows and subduing quiet, we call to mind many a twilight hour of gentle talk and sweet-souled melancholy...
"The sorrow of the dead is the only sorrow from which we refuse to be divorced. Every other wound we seek to heal, every other affliction to forget; but this wound we consider it a duty to keep open, this affliction we cherish and brood over in solitude. Where is the mother who would willingly forget the infant that perished like a blossom from her arms thought every recollection is a pang? Where is the child that would willingly forget the the most tender of parents, though to remember be but to lament? Who, even in the hour of agony, would forget the friend over whom he mourns? Who, even when the tomb is closing upon the remains of her he most loved, when he feels his heart, as it were, crushed in the closing of its portal, would accept of consolation that must be brought by forgetfulness? No, the love which survives the tomb is the one of the noblest attributes of the soul. If it has its woes, it has likewise its delights; and when the overwhelming burst of the grief is calmed into the gentle tear of recollection, when the sudden anguish and the pensive meditation on all that it was in the days of its loveliness, who would root out such a sorrow from the heart? Though it may sometimes throw a passing cloud over the bright exchange it even for the song of pleasure or the burst of revelry? No, there is a voice from he tomb sweeter than song. There is a remembrance of the dead to which we turn even from the charms of the living."
I dedicate this memoir in honor of our courageous son, Dakota, who has been in the presence of the Father for over two and a half years. To our precious Baby Hawkins who went to be with the Father in Oct. of 1998. To my dear mother who passed suddenly in Oct. of 1999 and Henry's wonderful mother who passed in 1996. Whether you have lost a child, spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, grandparent, other relative, or friend...You can somehow relate to the words' of legendary Washington Irving. Please feel free to leave an entry in memory of someone you love that this memoir brings to mind. We can all honor their memory and lift your name up in prayer over this season of remembrance and the year to come.
May we remember the greatest gift of all this season, Jesus Christ. Without His birth we couldn't celebrate His resurrection. His star still shines....
"Keep the Faith" in all things,
Sharon
Thursday, December 18, 2008 8:46 AM CST
In his 'Rural Funerals', Washington Irving beautifully wrote of the memories of loved ones we have lost as he gazed across rural England.
"The fixed and unchanging features of the country also perpetuate the memory of the friend with whom we once enjoyed them, who was the companion of our most retired walks, and gave animation to every lonely scene. His idea is associated with every charm of Nature; we hear his voice in the echo which he once delighted to awaken; his spirit haunts the grove which he once frequented; we think of him in the wild upland solitute or amidst the pensive beauty of the valley. In the fresheness of joyous morning we remember his beaming smiles and bounding gayety; and when sober evening returns with its gathering shadows and subduing quiet, we call to mind many a twilight hour of gentle talk and sweet-souled melancholy...
"The sorrow of the dead is the only sorrow from which we refuse to be divorced. Every other wound we seek to heal, every other affliction to forget; but this wound we consider it a duty to keep open, this affliction we cherish and brood over in solitude. Where is the mother who would willingly forget the infant that perished like a blossom from her arms thought every recollection is a pang? Where is the child that would willingly forget the the most tender of parents, though to remember be but to lament? Who, even in the hour of agony, would forget the friend over whom he mourns? Who, even when the tomb is closing upon the remains of her he most loved, when he feels his heart, as it were, crushed in the closing of its portal, would accept of consolation that must be brought by forgetfulness? No, the love which survives the tomb is the one of the noblest attributes of the soul. If it has its woes, it has likewise its delights; and when the overwhelming burst of the grief is calmed into the gentle tear of recollection, when the sudden anguish and the pensive meditation on all that it was in the days of its loveliness, who would root out such a sorrow from the heart? Though it may sometimes throw a passing cloud over the bright exchange it even for the song of pleasure or the burst of revelry? No, there is a voice fromt he tomb sweeter than song. There is a remembrance of the dead to which we turn even from the charms of the living."
I dedicate this memoir in honor of our courageous son, Dakota, who has been in the presence of the Father for over two and a half years. To our precious Baby Hawkins who went to be with the Father in Oct. of 1998. To my dear mother who passed suddenly in Oct. of 1999 and Henry's wonderful mother who passed in 1996. Whether you have lost a child, spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, grandparent, other relative, or friend...You can somehow relate to the words' of legendary Washington Irving. Please feel free to leave an entry in memory of someone you love that this memoir brings to mind. We can all honor their memory and lift your name up in prayer over this season of remembrance and the year to come.
May we remember the greatest gift of all this season, Jesus Christ. Without His birth we couldn't celebrate His resurrection. His star still shines....
"Keep the Faith" in all things,
Sharon
Thursday, December 18, 2008 8:46 AM CST
In his 'Rural Funerals', Washington Irving beautifully wrote of the memories of loved ones we have lost as he gazed across rural England.
"The fixed and unchanging features of the country also perpetuate the memory of the friend with whom we once enjoyed them, who was the companion of our most retired walks, and gave animation to every lonely scene. His idea is associated with every charm of Nature; we hear his voice in the echo which he once delighted to awaken; his spirit haunts the grove which he once frequented; we think of him in the wild upland solitute or amidst the pensive beauty of the valley. In the fresheness of joyous morning we remember his beaming smiles and bounding gayety; and when sober evening returns with its gathering shadows and subduing quiet, we call to mind many a twilight hour of gentle talk and sweet-souled melancholy...
"The sorrow of the dead is the only sorrow from which we refuse to be divorced. Every other wound we seek to heal, every other affliction to forget; but this wound we consider it a duty to keep open, this affliction we cherish and brood over in solitude. Where is the mother who would willingly forget the infant that perished like a blossom from her arms thought every recollection is a pang? Where is the child that would willingly forget the the most tender of parents, though to remember be but to lament? Who, even in the hour of agony, would forget the friend over whom he mouns? Who, even when the tomb is closing upon the remains of her he most loved, when he feels his heart, as it were, crushed in the closing of its portal, would accept of consolation that must be brought by forgetfulness? No, the love which survives the tomb is the one of the noblest attributes of the soul. If it has its woes, it has likewise its delights; and when the overwhelming burst of the grief is calmed into the gentle tear of recollection, when the sudden anguish and the pensive meditation on all that it was in the days of its loveliness, who would root out such a sorrow from the heart? Though it may sometimes throw a passing cloud over the bright exchange it even for the song of pleasure or the burst of revelry? No, there is a voice fromt he tomb sweeter than song. There is a remembrance of the dead to which we turn even from the charms of the living."
I dedicate this memoir in honor of our courageous son, Dakota, who has been in the presence of the Father for over two and a half years. To our precious Baby Hawkins who went to be with the Father in Oct. of 1998. To my dear mother who passed suddenly in Oct. of 1999 and Henry's wonderful mother who passed in 1996. Whether you have lost a child, spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, grandparent, other relative, or friend...You can somehow relate to the words' of legendary Washington Irving. Please feel free to leave an entry in memory of someone you love that this memoir brings to mind. We can all honor their memory and lift your name up in prayer over this season of remembrance and the year to come.
May we remember the greatest gift of all this season, Jesus Christ. Without His birth we couldn't celebrate His resurrection. His star still shines....
"Keep the Faith" in all things,
Sharon
Thursday, December 18, 2008 8:46 AM CST
In his 'Rural Funerals', Washington Irving beautifully wrote of the memories of loved ones we have lost as he gazed across rural England.
"The fixed and unchanging features of the country also perpetuate the memory of the friend with whom we once enjoyed them, who was the companion of our most retired walks, and gave animation to every lonely scene. His idea is associated with every charm of Nature; we hear his voice in the echo which he once delighted to awaken; his spirit haunts the grove which he once frequented; we think of him in the wild upland solitute or amidst the pensive beauty of the valley. In the fresheness of joyous morning we remember his beaming smiles and bounding gayety; and when sober evening returns with its gathering shadows and subduing quiet, we call to mind many a twilight hour of gentle talk and sweet-souled melancholy...
"The sorrow of the dead is the only sorrow fron which we refuse to be divorced. Every other wound we seek to heal, every other affliction to forget; but this wound we consider it a duty to keep open, this affliction we cherish and brood over in solitude. Where is the mother who would willingly forget the infant that perished like a blossom from her arms thought every recollection is a pang? Where is the child that would willingly forget the the most tender of parents, though to remember be but to lament? Who, even in the hour of agony, would forget the friend over whom he mouns? Who, even when the tomb is closing upon the remains of her he most loved, when he feels his heart, as it were, crushed in the closing of its portal, would accept of consolation that must be brought by forgetfulness? No, the love which survives the tomb is the one of the noblest attributes of the soul. If it has its woes, it has likewise its delights; and when the overwhelming burst of the grief is calmed into the gentle tear of recollection, when the sudden anguish and the pensive meditation on all that it was in the days of its loveliness, who would root out such a sorrow from the heart? Though it may sometimes throw a passing cloud over the bright exchange it even for the song of pleasure or the burst of revelry? No, there is a voice fromt he tomb sweeter than song. There is a remembrance of the dead to which we turn even from the charms of the living."
I dedicate this memoir in honor of our courageous son, Dakota, who has been in the presence of the Father for over two and a half years. To our precious Baby Hawkins who went to be with the Father in Oct. of 1998. To my dear mother who passed suddenly in Oct. of 1999 and Henry's wonderful mother who passed in 1996. Whether you have lost a child, spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, grandparent, other relative, or friend...You can somehow relate to the words' of legendary Washington Irving. Please feel free to leave an entry in memory of someone you love that this memoir brings to mind. We can all honor their memory and lift your name up in prayer over this season of remembrance and the year to come.
May we remember the greatest gift of all this season, Jesus Christ. Without His birth we couldn't celebrate His resurrection. His star still shines....
"Keep the Faith" in all things,
Sharon
Thursday, December 18, 2008 8:46 AM CST
In his 'Rural Funerals', Washington Irving beautifully wrote of the memories of loved ones we have lost as he gazed across rural England.
"The fixed and unchanging features of the country also perpetuate the memory of the friend with whom we once enjoyed them, who was the companion of our most retired walks, and gave animation to every lonely scene. His idea is associated with every charm of Nature; we hear his voice in the echo which he once deighted to awaken; his spirit haunts the grove which he once frequented; we think of him in the wild upland solitute or amidst the pensive beauty of the valley. In the fresheness of joyous morning we remember his beaming smiles and bounding gayety; and when sober evening returns with its gathering shadows and subduing quiet, we call to mind many a twilight hour of gentle talk and sweet-souled melancholy...
"The sorrow of the dead is the only sorrow fron which we refuse to be divorced. Every other wound we seek to heal, every other affliction to forget; but this wound we consider it a duty to keep open, this affliction we cherish and brood over in solitude. Where is the mother who would willingly forget the infant that perished like a blossom from her arms thought every recollection is a pang? Where is the child that would willingly forget the the most tender of parents, though to remember be but to lament? Who, even in the hour of agony, would forget the friend over whom he mouns? Who, even when the tomb is closing upon the remains of her he most loved, when he feels his heart, as it were, crushed in the closing of its portal, would accept of consolation that must be brought by forgetfulness? No, the love which survives the tomb is the one of the noblest attributes of the soul. If it has its woes, it has likewise its delights; and when the overwhelming burst of the grief is calmed into the gentle tear of recollection, when the sudden anguish and the pensive meditation on all that it was in the days of its loveliness, who would root out such a sorrow from the heart? Though it may sometimes throw a passing cloud over the bright exchange it even for the song of pleasure or the burst of revelry? No, there is a voice fromt he tomb sweeter than song. There is a remembrance of the dead to which we turn even from the charms of the living."
I dedicate this memoir in honor of our courageous son, Dakota, who has been in the presence of the Father for over two and a half years. To our precious Baby Hawkins who went to be with the Father in Oct. of 1998. To my dear mother who passed suddenly in Oct. of 1999 and Henry's wonderful mother who passed in 1996. Whether you have lost a child, spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, grandparent, other relative, or friend...You can somehow relate to the words' of legendary Washington Irving. Please feel free to leave an entry in memory of someone you love that this memoir brings to mind. We can all honor their memory and lift your name up in prayer over this season of remembrance and the year to come.
May we remember the greatest gift of all this season, Jesus Christ. Without His birth we couldn't celebrate His resurrection. His star still shines....
"Keep the Faith" in all things,
Sharon
Thursday, December 18, 2008 8:46 AM CST
In his 'Rural Funerals', Washington Irving beautifully wrote of the memories we have of loved ones we have lost as he gazed across rural England.
"The fixed and unchanging features of the country also perpetuate the memory of the friend with whom we once enjoyed them, who was the companion of our most retired walks, and gave animation to every lonely scene. His idea is associated with every charm of Nature; we hear his voice in the echo which he once deighted to awaken; his spirit haunts the grove which he once frequented; we think of him in the wild upland solitute or amidst the pensive beauty of the valley. In the fresheness of joyous morning we remember his beaming smiles and bounding gayety; and when sober evening returns with its gathering shadows and subduing quiet, we call to mind many a twilight hour of gentle talk and sweet-souled melancholy...
"The sorrow of the dead is the only sorrow fron which we refuse to be divorced. Every other wound we seek to heal, every other affliction to forget; but this wound we consider it a duty to keep open, this affliction we cherish and brood over in solitude. Where is the mother who would willingly forget the infant that perished like a blossom from her arms thought every recollection is a pang? Where is the child that would willingly forget the the most tender of parents, though to remember be but to lament? Who, even in the hour of agony, would forget the friend over whom he mouns? Who, even when the tomb is closing upon the remains of her he most loved, when he feels his heart, as it were, crushed in the closing of its portal, would accept of consolation that must be brought by forgetfulness? No, the love which survives the tomb is the one of the noblest attributes of the soul. If it has its woes, it has likewise its delights; and when the overwhelming burst of the grief is calmed into the gentle tear of recollection, when the sudden anguish and the pensive meditation on all that it was in the days of its loveliness, who would root out such a sorrow from the heart? Though it may sometimes throw a passing cloud over the bright exchange it even for the song of pleasure or the burst of revelry? No, there is a voice fromt he tomb sweeter than song. There is a remembrance of the dead to which we turn even from the charms of the living."
I dedicate this memoir in honor of our courageous son, Dakota, who has been in the presence of the Father for over two and a half years. To our precious Baby Hawkins who went to be with the Father in Oct. of 1998. To my dear mother who passed suddenly in Oct. of 1999 and Henry's wonderful mother who passed in 1996. Whether you have lost a child, spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, grandparent, other relative, or friend...You can somehow relate to the words' of legendary Washington Irving. Please feel free to leave an entry in memory of someone you love that this memoir brings to mind. We can all honor their memory and lift your name up in prayer over this season of remembrance and the year to come.
May we remember the greatest gift of all this season, Jesus Christ. Without His birth we couldn't celebrate His resurrection. His star still shines....
"Keep the Faith" in all things,
Sharon
Mon. Nov. 17, 2008 9:46 PM CST
Our 2nd annual Pennies from Heaven fundraiser is coming up in March for the Keep the Faith (KTF) Foundation. We're expanding regionally and need volunteers to make it happen. Please let Jennifer Bates or myself know if you want to be a part of this year's fundraiser for children/teenagers and their families fighting cancer.
Hope to see many of our children, teenagers, and parents at the Prayer Vigil this Thurs. night! (Info at bottom)
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Nov. 8, 2008 9:48 PM
"Let the children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it...And he took the children into his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them." Mark 10:14-16
I've begun a new study on Jesus' parables in the book of Mark. The questions I am asking myself are: What is Jesus trying to teach me by leading me here? How can I instantly apply this parable to my life TODAY? How can the parables change the way I see - allowing me to see through His eyes.
After an emotional week that was all-consuming, I returned home exhausted after a precious 11-year old's funeral who passed from leukemia. I was desperate to seek respite for mind, body and soul. Thankfully, God's word "never returns void" and I retreated to our secluded deck with the splendor of autumn surrounding me. With Starbuck's in hand, more importantly was my teethered leather Bible Henry had given me before our world stopped! I was THIRSTY for God to show me something fresh that would restore my soul. "His mercies fail not for they are new every morning....." HE did not disappoint me!
I was drawn to the parable entitled, "The Little Children and Jesus." My heart skipped a beat as I realized Dakota had read these very verses to me from ACH back in 2003 at the tender age of twelve.
...."And he took the children in his arms, put his hand on them and blessed them." Little did I know how it would affect me almost five years later with the vision of my own son wrapped in Jesus' arms rather than my own. A simple, teachable moment of discipline to His own disciples, yet a profound picture of love to the little children who were drawn to their Savior. A 2000 plus-year old story renewed my spirit and brought peace and restoration once again.
Before closing these scriptures, I could only imagine hearing Dakota's calming voice to me, "Momma, Jesus took me just as He's doing to all these little children. He picked me up and held me in His arms and BLESSED (cured) me Mom!" I knew this truth but today it became a real scenerio.
All I could say was, "Thank you Lord for these words of comfort that our children can always be safe with you." My heart was restored! Now I can better carry out my motherly duties to an awesome 15-year old who will always be our hero, AND a lively 3-year old who is a gift from God.
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From our bulletin today at Mt. Carmel: A historical moment of prayer for our community and all of Lonoke County: There will be a Prayer Vigil on Thurs. Nov. 20 at First Baptist Church in Cabot from 7-8 P.M. Praying for the spirit of death to be cast from our community after the loss of 18 children in the last 3 months. This is a non-denominational event. Questions or ways to help: Contact Kelly McCoughlin at KellyC123@yahoo.com
Saturday, November 8, 2008 9:46 PM CST
"Let the children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it...And he took the children into his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them." Mark 10:14-16
I've begun a new study on Jesus' parables in the book of Mark. The questions I am asking myself are: What is Jesus trying to teach me from them today to lead me here? How can I apply this parable to my life today? How can they change the way I see - allowing me to see through His eyes. After an emotional week and coming home from a precious 11-year old's funeral today who passed from leukemia, I had to find respite for my soul before I could function any longer.
God's word "never returns void" and I retreated to our secluded deck with the splendor of autumn surrounding me. With Starbuck's in hand, more importantly was my teethered leather Bible that Henry had given me before our world stopped! I was thirsty for God to show me something fresh that would restore my soul. "His mercies fail not for they are new every morning....."
I opened to the parable of The Little Children and Jesus and saw that Dakota had read to me from the hospital on
Dec. 9, 2003 at the tender age of twelve...."And he took the children in his arms, put his hand on them and blessed them." Little did I know how it would affect me almost five years later; a beautiful parable lived out over 2000 years ago among His own disciples. Today it had an eternal meaning for a mother who will never stop longing for her firstborn son. As I read the end I could only imagine hearing Dakota's calming voice to me, "Momma, Jesus took me just as He's doing to all these little children, picked me up and put me in His hands and He BLESSED(cured) me Mom!
All I could say was, "Thank you Lord for these words." My heart was full and I could carry on my duties of motherhood to an awesome 15-year old who will always be our hero and a lively 3-year old who is a gift from God.
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A Time of Prayer for our children & teenagers of our community on Thursday November 20. Hopefully I will know time/location after church tomorrow.
Saturday, November 8, 2008 9:46 PM CST
"Let the children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it...And he took the children into his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them." Mark 10:14-16
I've begun a new study on Jesus' parables in the book of Luke. The questions I am asking myself are: What is Jesus trying to teach me from them today to lead me here? How can I apply this parable to my life today? How can they change the way I see - allowing me to see through His eyes. After an emotional week and coming home from a precious 11-year old's funeral today who passed from leukemia, I had to find respite for my soul before I could function any longer.
God's word "never returns void" and I retreated to our secluded deck with the splendor of autumn surrounding me. With Starbuck's in hand, more importantly was my teethered leather Bible that Henry had given me before our world stopped! I was thirsty for God to show me something fresh that would restore my soul. "His mercies fail not for they are new every morning....."
I opened to the parable of The Little Children and Jesus and saw that Dakota had read to me from the hospital on
Dec. 9, 2003 at the tender age of twelve...."And he took the children in his arms, put his hand on them and blessed them." Little did I know how it would affect me almost five years later; a beautiful parable lived out over 2000 years ago among His own disciples. Today it had an eternal meaning for a mother who will never stop longing for her firstborn son. As I read the end I could only imagine hearing Dakota's calming voice to me, "Momma, Jesus took me just as He's doing to all these little children, picked me up and put me in His hands and He BLESSED(cured) me Mom!
All I could say was, "Thank you Lord for these words." My heart was full and I could carry on my duties of motherhood to an awesome 15-year old who will always be our hero and a lively 3-year old who is a gift from God.
***********************************************************
A Time of Prayer for our children & teenagers of our community on Thursday November 20. Hopefully I will know time/location after church tomorrow.
Nov. 6, 9:30 AM CDT
FYI: A celebratation of Baillie Hendrickson's life will be at 2 PM Sat. at Cabot's Mt, Carmel Baptist Church. Visitation is on Friday night at Cabot Moore's Funeral Home from 6 - 9 PM. Baillie was 11 years old.
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Nov. 3,
I wish this could be good news and not so sad. Bailee Hendrickson from Cabot passed away Sunday after a long, tough battle w/ leukemia. Please add this family to your prayers. If not sure of her age but I would guess age 10 or 11. She was such a sweet spirited young girl who loved life.
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Nov. 1, 3:30 PM Yet another tragedy has hit our hometown. Please remember the family of John Fortner who was killed in a car accident early this morning. John was a polite, quiet-natured young man who was a senior at Cabot High School and a member of the CHS football team. Riley spoke so highly of him from getting to know him in HS football this year. Dakota loved John and they were good friends during their Middle School North days and made many golfing memories together.
I cannot begin to tell you what your prayers will mean for this family...The pain of losing a child is on-going, vast, deep, and devastating....As long as there is breath in us....we live with that pain. Our world abruptly stops! Too many tragedies are hitting our children and teenagers. God, bring us to our knees.
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Sept. 2, 2008 Emotions running deep as I try to survive Dakota's senior year. No words will come, so I'll write Dakota's last words he had penned in his journal right before we left Jerusalem,......."Thank you God for another day of life! We miss home and will be there soon!"
Tuesday, August 19, 2008 3:18 PM CDT
Please pray for 13 year old, Tiffany Still from Cabot. Tiffany had a heart transplant four years ago and was diagnosed with leukemia this year. She has poor heart function and really needs our support, encouragement, prayers and love. You may link to her website at the bottom of the homepage.
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This Saturday! Hallelujah Harmony Quartet Concert Benefit
for Keep the Faith Foundation (KTF)
Cabot High School Fine Arts
Sat. Aug 23 6 p.m.
No admission...Love offering for KTF
Fri Aug 15, 2008 11 AM CDT
Praise God from whom all blessings flow. A special young man, Job, who has survived cancer and has just recently had a lung transplant is getting a new home from Extreme Makeovers. Job and his family are from Bigelow, Arkansas. We've also had the privelege of praying & loving this little boy through the Keep the Faith Foundation. The family is now aware since Ty Pennington came to their doorstep to deliver the news!! Job still has many health issues and needs our prayers. His mother, Tina, has been a great testimony of faith through his journey. Please see his site at www.caringbridge.org/ar/job
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As I begin to write about, The Crossroads, as we rapidly approach Dakota's senior year, I covet your love, encouragement and prayers. This is the year Dakota and Riley dreamed about growing up as they played football together, laughed, and picked on one another. As Riley gets older, I see so much of Dakota in his heart and in his soul. Please pray for my boy this year as he plays high school football without his brother. The pain never fades away. Every direction we turn is a constant reminder.
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Conquer Childhood Cancer Act was signed into law by President Bush yesterday at a ceremony in the Oval Office. This legislation was named in memory of Caroline Pryce Walker, daugher of Congresswoman Debora Pryce (Republican -Ohio), who succombed to neuroblastoma in 1999 at age nine, and will dramatically increase federal investment into childhood cancer research." This is a huge praise, however, time is of the essence... Too late for many of us, but hopefully just in time for many after us who are in the fight and the unfortunate new diagnosis' that continue to skyrocket annually in childhood cancer. I pray a portion of this funding will go towards finding the CAUSE & PREVENTION to be irradicated and there will be no need to find a cure. If given the opportunity, this is what I would fight for.
For more info this news release:
http://www.expertclick.com/NewsRelease
Wire/defautl.cf?Action=ReleaseDetail& TD=22451&NRWid=783
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4th Annual Hallelujah Harmony Quartet Benefit Concert for...
Keep the Faith Foundation
Saturday, August 23, 2008
6 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Cabot High School Fine Arts
No Admission Charged - A love offering will be received for KTF for children & their families fighting cancer.
Featuring:
Mike Franklin, MC and Soloist
The Hayes Brothers
Glen & Leigh Ann Pool
Hallelujah Harmony Quartet
Mt. Carmel Youth, Faith Youth, Children in Community, Friends of Cody Sims & Riley Hawkins, Friends of Caleb & Dakota will pass out programs, take up love offering, carry the American flag/finale'
In Loving Memory of three of our precious children in Lonoke County who fought cancer w/ love, faith, hope & courage: Caleb Sims, Jazlyn Ferguson,& Dakota Hawkins
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I will not doubt, though all my ships at sea
Come drifting home with broken masts and sails;
I will believe the Hand that never fails,
From seeming evil works to good for me.
And though I weep because those sails are tattered,
Still will I cry, while my best hopes lie shattered
I TRUST IN THEE.
I will not doubt, though all my prayers return...
Unanswered from the still, white realm above;
I will believe it is an all-wise love
That has refused these things for which I yearn;
And though at times I cannot keep from grieving,
Yet the pure passion of my fixed believing
Undimmed will burn.
I will not doubt, though sorrows fall like rain,
And troubles swarm like bees about a hive.
I will believe the heights for which I strive
Are only reached by anguish and by pain;
And though I groan and writhe beneath my crosses,
Yet I will see through my severest losses
The greater gain.
I will not doubt, well anchored in this faith,
Like some staunch ship, my soul braves every gale;
So strong its courage that it will no fail
To face the mighty unknown sea
Oh, may I cry, though body leaves the spirit,
I DO NOT DOUBT, so listening worlds may hear it,
With my last breath.
-Richard Fuller
Tuesday, July 8, 2008 9:20 AM CDT
"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalms 90:12
Often we program ourselves to do it all.We go against the grain when we choose to overwork, overbook our schedules, overload our families with activities, etc. Someone suffers, someone's needs go unmet, stress/depression/loneliness/insecurities become evident, frustration occurs, and before we know it everything is out of whack because our priorities are out of line with God's plan. The reasons: success, financial gain, pride, etc.
What if each day we're a countdown similar to that of a space shuttle take-off? In essense, it is... According to this verse, our days are numbered in God's eyes but we have to be "taught" to number them ourselves. We choose each day of how we will spend our eternal destination without even being aware. Perhaps we have a strong desire for godly wisdom, yet we try to achieve earthly wisdom without much consideration for our eternal merit and that of our family and loved ones.
Amazing how this verse lays it all out and makes such good sense. If we number our days (slow down and see what is most important by prioritizing our lives and letting some things go) THEN we will gain wisdom. The Psalmist's plea was that of experience, regret, and hindsight, but seemingly a different outlook for the future.
If I could audibly hear Dakota's voice just one more time, I'm certain he would say to "number your days" because life is soooo short. Spend time with your children today like there is no tomorrow. May we re-program ourselves by letting the unimportant go and cherish what we have.
My heart is heavy today and still bleeds; Lord help me to "number my days" in accordance to YOUR will.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
P/S. Please pray for our children that are still in the fierce battle (Job, Tiffany, Baillie, Rocky, Anthony, Kathrain, and so many others) and for the families who had to let their children go prematurely. Each day is a challenge!
I walked a mile with Pleasure,
she chattered all the way;
But left me none the wiser
For all she had to say.
I walked a mile with Sorrow,
And ne'er a word said she;
But oh, the things I learned from her
When Sorrow walked with me.
J.R. Miller
Sunday, June 29, 2008 10:30 PM CDT
One of my favorites on standing still before God...Taken from STREAMS IN THE DESERT.
"Whether you turn to the right or the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21
When we have doubts or are facing difficulties, when others suggest courses of action that are conflicting, when caution dictates one approach but faith another, we should be still. We should quiet each intruding person, calm ourselves in the sacred stillness of God's presence, study His word for guidance, and with true devotion focus our attention on Him. We should lift our nature into the pure light radiating from His face, having eagerness to know only what God our Lord will determine for us. Soon He will reveal by His secret counsel a distinct and unmistakable sense of His direction.
It is unwise for a new believer to depend ont his approach alone. He should wait for circumstances to also confirm what God is revealing. Yet Christians who have had experiences in their walk with Him know the great value of secret fellowhip with the Lord as a means of discerning His will.
Are you uncertain about which direction you should take go? Take your question to God an receive guidance from either the light of His smile or the cloud of His refusal. You MUST get alone with Him, where the lights and the darknesses of the world cannot interfere and where the opinions of others cannot reach you. You must also have the courage to wait in silent expectation, even when everyone around you is insisting on an immediate decision or action. If you will do these things, the will of God will become clear to you. And you will have a deeper concept of who He is, having more insight into His nature and His heart of love.
All this will be your unsurpassed gift. It will be a heavenly experience...a precious eternal privilege, and the rich reward of the long hours of waiting.
Stand still, my soul, for so your Lord commands:
E'en when your way seems blocked leave it in His wise hands;
His arm is mighty to divide the wave.
Stand still, my soul, stand still and you will see
How God can work the impossible for thee,
For with great deliverance He does save.
Be not impatient, but in stillness stand,
Even surrounded on every hand,
In ways your spirit does not comprehend.
God cannot clear your way until you are still,
That He may work in you His blessed will,
An all your heart and will to Him do bend.
Be still, my soul, for just when your are still,
Can God reveal Himself to you; until
Through you His love and light and life can freely flow;
In stillness God can work through you and reach
The souls around you. He then through you can teach
His lessons, and His power in weakness show.
Be still - a deeper step in faith and rest.
Be still and know your Father does know best
The way to lead His child to that fair land,
A summer land where quiet waters flow;
Where longing souls are satisfied, and know
Their God, and praise for all that He has planned.
I was so drawn to this devo tonight. All of us are at these crossroads from time to time and don't know which way to turn. I regret the times I have gone before God. I'm sure I missed a huge blessing. Many times delays are God-sent and for our own good, yet we miss what God had in store for us due to our impatience for discernment and lack of spiritual maturity. The news of encouragement here is we can start anew TODAY. I cannot hear God among the noises of life. I must go to a quiet place by myself to mediate and ponder on His word. Only there can I honestly pour my heart out before Him, ask Him the questions a child would a parent and "be still" and know that HE IS GOD.
"Keep the Faith" Always,
Sharon
Sunday, June 29, 2008 10:30 PM CDT
One of my favorites on standing still before God...Taken from STREAMS IN THE DESERT.
"Whether you turn to the right or the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21
When we have doubts or are facing difficulties, when others suggest courses of action that are conflicting, when caution dictates one approach but faith another, we should be still. We should quiet each intruding person, calm ourselves in the sacred stillness of God's presence, study His word for guidance, and with true devotion focus our attention on Him. We should lift our nature into the pure light radiating from His face, having eagerness to know only what God our Lord will determine for us. Soon He will reveal by His secret counsel a distinct and unmistakable sense of His direction.
It is unwise for a new believer to depend ont his approach alone. He should wait for circumstances to also confirm what God is revealing. Yet Christians who have had experiences in their walk with Him know the great value of secret fellowhip with the Lord as a means of discerning His will.
Are you uncertain about which direction you should take go? Take your question to God an receive guidance from either the light of His smile or the cloud of His refusal. You MUST get alone with Him, where the lights and the darknesses of the world cannot interfere and where the opinions of others cannot reach you. You must also have the courage to wait in silent expectation, even when everyone around you is insisting on an immediate decision or action. If you will do these things, the will of God will become clear to you. And you will have a deeper concept of who He is, having more insight into His nature and His heart of love.
All this will be your unsurpassed gift. It will be a heavenly experience . a precious eternal privilege, and the rich reward of the long hours of waiting.
Stand still, my soul, for so your Lord commands:
E'en when your way seems blocked leave it in His wise hands;
His arm is mighty to divide the wave.
Stand still, my soul, stand still and you will see
How God can work the impossible for thee,
For with great deliverance He does save.
Be not impatient, but in stillness stand,
Even surrounded on every hand,
In ways your spirit does not comprehend.
God cannot clear your way until you are still,
That He may work in you His blessed will,
An all your heart and will to Him do bend.
Be still, my soul, for just when your are still,
Can God reveal Himself to you; until
Through you His love and light and life can freely flow;
In stillness God can work through you and reach
The souls around you. He then through you can teach
His lessons, and His power in weakness show.
Be still - a deeper step in faith and rest.
Be still and know your Father does know best
The way to lead His child to that fair land,
A summer land where quiet waters flow;
Where longing souls are satisfied, and know
Their God, and praise for all that He has planned.
I was so drawn to this devo tonight. All of us are at these crossroads from time to time and don't know which way to turn. I regret the times I have gone before God. I'm sure I missed a huge blessing. Many times delays are God-sent and for our own good, yet we miss what God had in store for us due to our impatience for discernment and lack of spiritual maturity. The news of encouragement here is we can start anew TODAY. I cannot here God among the noises of life. I must go to a quiet place by myself to mediate and ponder on His word. Only there can I honestly pour my heart out before Him, ask Him the questions a child would a parent and "be still" and know that HE IS GOD.
"Keep the Faith" Always,
Sharon
Tuesday, June 24, 2008 10:52 PM CDT
The greatest giver gave it all and that is Jesus Christ.
No man is an island, entire of itself, every man is a piece of the continent. ~ John Donne
Sticks in a bundle are unbreakable. ~ Kenyan Proverb
The moment we break faith with one another, the sea engulfs us and the light goes out. ~ James Baldwin
In union there is strength. ~ Aesop
Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success.
~Author Unknown
Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success. ~Henry Ford
The complainer seldom gives yet God still does.
It is a fact that in the right formation, the lifting power of many wings can achieve twice the distance of any birds flying alone. ~ Author Unknown
Every penny does count. It teaches us the value of a dollar. It teaches us patience and perseverance in attaining our goal. It breaks down religious barriers for the sake of a common cause that none of us ever want to experience. It causes us to see miraculous pennies at unexpected places and pause to pick them up. It gives a child a sense of accomplishment, It links us together,....and I could go on and on..... "Now, for the rest of the story," go to the Pennies from Heaven link and check out that barometer!
Praise be to GOD!
Keep the Faith
Tuesday, June 24, 2008 10:52 PM CDT
The greatest giver gave it all and that is Jesus Christ.
No man is an island, entire of itself, every man is a piece of the continent. ~ John Donne
Sticks in a bundle are unbreakable. ~ Kenyan Proverb
The moment we break faith with one another, the sea engulfs us and the light goes out. ~ James Baldwin
In union there is strength. ~ Aesop
Teamwork divides the task and mutliplies the success.
~Author Unknown
Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success. ~Henry Ford
The complainer never gives yet God still does.
It is a fact that in the right formation, the lifting power of many wings can achieve twice the distnace of any birds flying alone. ~ Author Unknown
Every penny does count. It teaches us the value of a dollar. It teaches us patience and perseverance in attaining our goal. It breaks down religious barriers for the sake of a common cause that none of us ever want to experience. It causes us to see miraculous pennies at unexpected places and pause to pick them up. It gives a child a sense of accomplishment, It links us together,....and I could go on and on..... "Now, for the rest of the story," go to the Pennies from Heaven link and check out that barometer!
Praise be to GOD!
Keep the Faith
Tuesday, June 24, 2008 10:52 PM CDT
The greatest giver gave it all and that is Jesus Christ.
No man is an island, entire of itself, every man is a piece of the continent. ~ John Donne
Sticks in a bundle are unbreakable. ~ Kenyan Proverb
The moment we break faith with one another, the sea engulfs us and the light goes out. ~ James Baldwin
In union there is strength. ~ Aesop
Teamwork divides the task and mutliplies the succes.
~Author Unknown
Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success. ~Henry Ford
The complainer never gives yet God still does.
It is a fact that in the right formation, the lifting power of many wings can achieve twice the distnace of any birds flying alone. ~ Author Unknown
Every penny does count. It teaches us the value of a dollar. It teaches us patience and perseverance in attaining our goal. It breaks down religious barriers for the sake of a common cause that none of us ever want to experience. It causes us to see miraculous pennies at unexpected places and pause to pick them up. It gives a child a sense of accomplishment, It links us together,....and I could go on and on..... "Now, for the rest of the story," go to the Pennies from Heaven link and check out that barometer!
Praise be to GOD!
Keep the Faith
Wednesday, June 11, 2008 9:56 PM CDT
Kroger & Cabot Community Safety Fair
This Saturday, June 14, 2008
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Kroger: 1295 W Main St.
Cabot, Ar 72023
The fair will include a fire safety house, and participants include the Cabot Police Dept, the Red Cross, the Health Dept, the Animal Shelter, Metropolitian Bank, and Heavenly Riders.
The fair will be held in Kroger parking lot. The day will include lunches, prizes, and car wash.
The Community Safety Fair is sponsored by Kroger. Proceeds will go to the Keep the Faith Foundation for Kids with Cancer.
For more info call Beverly Williams at 628-5185.
***********************************************************
"We know all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
More on this beautiful scripture at a later time when I can truly find the words to describe how this holy insight is unfolding in our lives. Just concentrate on "God works" and be mindful that it is present tense, not past or future. Read on...HE does require and desire something from each of us: our love and obedience. May we truly stand in AWE of God's wisdom and love for us today.
Thank you for your recent entries. Life has been very busy for us lately. God is good and faithful.
Our Pennies from Heaven campaign ends this week. Over the next week or so our KTF board will be picking up containers from businesses, churches, etc. A huge thank you for all the schools that participated in the drive. Over the last year, we've been honored to help many children and their families fighting cancer. This could not have been possible without the awesome support of our community. Dakota LOVED his community and he would be so very proud. I often wonder what God allows His children to see and know in heaven, but I do know it can only be the good because there are "no tears" there. My heart says he's smiling that infectious smile.
God Bless and keep you.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
Tuesday, April 22, 2008 1:53 PM CDT
This week marks the halfway point for Keep the Faith Foundation's (KTF) first annual community-wide fundraiser, Pennies From Heaven (PFH). Our challenge is to raise a million pennies in 100 days ($10,000) to benefit KTF. With donations counted and pledges, I'm grateful that we are halfway there. We still have containers available if your family, workplace, church, school, or organization would like to host a container. Please email me...Either myself or someone on our board will bring you one. To learn more about KTF, its benefit's to children and their families, PFH fund-raiser, and to meet our board: Link to the websites at the bottom of the homepage.
I remember a monumental moment in time when Dakota and I were walking the hallways at ACH. He was hooked up to an IV pole after having just started a rigorous cycle of intense chemotherapy following the news of a first relapse. He was the tender age of 12, just started back to school determined to be a normal junior high student and make the basketball team at CJHS. Life was feeling semi-normal again. His head was full of the most amazing strawberry-blonde curls like you see on the picture on the website. You would never know it, but that picture was made the day following our worst nightmare; the news of relapse. His smile NEVER wavered nor did his faith. As we walked the halls side by side that day he emphatically told me, "Mom, everthing is going to be alright...Together we're going to keep the faith." In the days that followed, our Caringbridge website was up and going to mark his journey of trials and triumphs and the title of "keepthefaith" deemed most appropriate.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008 1:53 PM CDT
This week marks the halfway point for Keep the Faith Foundation's (KTF) first annual community-wide fundraiser, Pennies From Heaven (PFH). Our challenge is to raise a million pennies in 100 days ($10,000) to benefit KTF. With donations counted and pledges, I'm grateful that we are halfway there. We still have containers available if your family, workplace, church, school, or organization would like to host a container. Please email me...Either myself or someone on our board will bring you one. To learn more about KTF, its benefit's to children and their families, PFH fund-raiser, and to meet our board: Link to the websites at the bottom of the homepage.
I remember a monumental moment in time when Dakota and I were walking the hallways at ACH. He was hooked up to an IV pole after having just started a rigorous cycle of intense chemotherapy following the news of a his first relapse. He was the tender age of 12, just started back to school determined to be a normal junior high student and make the basketball team at CJHS. Life was feeling semi-normal again. His head was full of the most amazing strawberry-blonde curls like you see on the picture on the website. You would never know it, but that picture was made the day following our worst nightmare; the news of relapse. His smile NEVER wavered nor did his faith. As we walked the halls side by side that day he emphatically told me, "Mom, everthing is going to be alright...Together we're going to keep the faith." In the days that followed, our Caringbridge website was up and going to mark his journey of trials and triumphs and the title of "keepthefaith" deemed most appropriate.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008 1:53 PM CDT
This week marks the halfway point for Keep the Faith Foundation's (KTF) first annual community-wide fundraiser, Pennies From Heaven (PFH). Our challenge is to raise a million pennies in 100 days ($10,000) to benefit KTF. With donations counted and pledges, I'm grateful that we are halfway there. We still have containers available if your family, workplace, church, school, or organization would like to host a container. Please email me...Either myself or someone on our board will bring you one. To learn more about KTF, its benefit's to children and their families, PFH fund-raiser, and to meet our board: Link to the websites at the bottom of the homepage.
I remember a monumental moment in time when Dakota and I were walking the hallways at ACH. He was hooked up to an IV pole after having just started a rigorous cycle of intense chemotherapy following the news of a his first relapse. He was the tender age of 12, just started back to school determined to be a normal junior high student and make the basketball team at CJHS. Life was feeling semi-normal again. His head was full of the most amazing strawberry-blonde curls like you see on the picture on the website. You would never know it, but that picture was made the day following our worst nightmare; the news of relapse. His smile NEVER wavered nor did his faith. As we walked the halls side by side that day he emphatically told me, "Mom, everthing is going to be alright...Together we're going to keep the faith." In the days that followed, our Caringbridge website was up and going to mark his journey of trials and triumphs and the title of "keepthefaith" deemed most appropriate.
Monday March 10, 2008 4:08 PM CST
Happy Birthday to our 6 ft. teenager, Riley, who will be 15 years old tomorrow, March 11. You make the world go 'round! We are so PROUD of the young man you've become!
_______________________________________
May I start by sharing the messages on my daily calendar that God had for me on the following dates. God still walks with me, and talks with me daily through HIS word and people like YOU.......I STAND AMAZED at HIS timing
Feb. 7 - Dakota's birthday "You are...infintely dear to the Father, unspeakably precious to Him. You are never, not for one second, alone." Norman Dowty
March 2 - The day that Dakota died in my arms... "God has promised strength for the day, rest for the labor, light for the way, grace for the trials, help from above, unfailing sympathy, undying love." Annie Johnson Flint
March 5 - Dakota's funeral and burial... "BLESSED are those who mourn, for they WILL be comforted." The words of Jesus taken from Matthew 5:4
I cannot begin to share the blessings of the last few days. Today was awesome as Ry and I walked through the doors of City Hall, greeted by our favorite guy in the world (Hawk), family members, dear friends, Mayor Eddie Joe, co-workers, Dakota's buddies, Riley's buddies, KTF Board, and volunteers to lift us up and support the "PenniesfromHeaven" community-wide fundraiser for KTF.
Thank you to the churches, businesses, and schools who have already allowed us to place containers for this heartfelt ministry. I am so humbled and blessed to serve in a ministry that travels in the places my family has trod while aiding to heal my own heart. I have a passion for this ministry as I witness the benefits to these children in the fight of their lives. Other times, my heart aches and I realize it is a pain I must live with. Then God allows me to see a glimpse of some of the "whys" in my own life, although I've concluded that I will never fully understand in this lifetime.
Please shoot me an email if you would also like to place a container for pennies in your church, school, or workplace. Take note how Cabot is already "raising the bar" after it's first day. Please click on the PenniesfromHeaven website on the links at the bottom of the homepage. We have pictures from the kick-off and hope to soon add all of our sponsor's names.
We spent most of the weekend with our beloved "Aunt Donna" and her precious family. Her husband was baptized on Sunday morning, so we began rejoicing early in the day. We also get much joy out of watching Cousin Bethany and Riley fight!:) It was good for us to be away from the familiar for the second anniversary of Dakota's death.
We appreciate all the cards, emails and calls we've received in the last few days. If you've lost a child, you're always a little fearful that people will be forget a little more as time goes by. I'm THANKFUL to know that many of you haven't. Some are fearful of saying the wrong thing so they don't say anything.
I'm at the point where we WELCOME your sentiments and memories of Dakota; your entries, emails, etc. I'm always grateful, uplifted, and inspired by them. I want to know how you've been changed by cancer. I want to hear YOUR story. If you visit Dakota's gravesite - I would like to know. If you still visit this website, I would like to know why you keep coming back. Just when I think I might write my last entry, God seems to place something else on my heart. I still see approx. 1,000 hits per week and ask God to always equip me to say something with substance and encouragement. I care for each of you and I want to connect with your life too. Sometimes we forget how much we need one another to survive in this thing called "life."
KTF has helped many children and their families over the last year in paying insurance premiums, utility bills, rent, mortgages, etc. We've been blessed beyond measure and I know God must have HUGE plans for the ministry's future. Pray about how you can "plug in." Perhaps you would like to get your child/teenager involved, become a prayer warrior for these children, or volunteer your time.
I will close today with a scripture that has been proven to me over and over again as of late..."And we know that in all things God works for the good for those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28
Thanks for any support you can give the Keep the Faith Foundation.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
______________________________
MAYORAL PROCLAMATION for the city of Cabot proclaims March 5, 2006 as "A day of Remembrance and Tribute to Dakota Hawkins"
This Wednesday, March 5, 2008 seemed like the perfect day to kick-off the first annual community wide fundraiser, "Pennies from Heaven" - *A Million Pennies Challenge* with all the proceeds going to "Keep the Faith" Foundation for Kids with Cancer (KTF). KTF was founded in memory of Dakota Hawkins, Jazlyn Ferguson, and Caleb Sims, three children who fought hard and vigilantly against cancer.
KTF has a two fold mission. First, is to share the love and compassion of Jesus Christ with families who have children suffering from cancer. The second is to provide assistance for the financial burdens resulting in the family's care of their child.
The goal is to collect 1,000,000 pennies in 100 days which will raise $10,000. Please join the Hawkins family and the KTF Board at the kick-off ceremony at Cabot City Hall this Wed. March 5, 2008 @ 7:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to bind their hearts together as we make a small difference for our children who have to fight so hard.
For more info on KTF Foundation and to view the Pennies from Heaven website, see the links at the bottom of the homepage. KTF is in the process of adding testimonials to the site from children and their families we've been honored to share with.
Also, on behalf of KTF, we appreciate our community, schools, private contributors, local churches, youth groups, corporate sponsors, businesses, honorariums, and memorials that help to make this ministry truly a gift from God. A special thank you to several young ladies in our midst who are working tirelessly behind the scenes on this project. May we all continue to "keep the faith" in both the good times and bad as Dakota so often reminded us to do.
Pennies from Heaven
I found a penny today
Just laying on the ground,
But its's not just a penny
This little coin I've found.
Found pennies come from heaven
That's what I've been told,
By Angels watching over us
From their clouds of gold.
When an Angel thinks of you
They toss a penny down,
Sometimes just to cheer you up
To make a smile from a frown.
So don't pass by that penny
When your're feeling blue,
It may be a penny from heaven
That an Angel's tossed to you.
"In God We Trust" is not a phrase
Just printed on a penny,
It's something to remember
When trouble seems like many.
So when your'e down and it seems
Your life has a blue tint,
That penny on a sidewalk
May be truly heaven "cent."
Charles Mashburn
___________________________________
Henry Dakota Hawkins
February 7, 1991 - March 2, 2006
- A tribute to Dakota for THE DASH he left on our hearts. I would like to share The Dash that has made such a huge impact on my life. Most of you have likely seen it circulating.
- I want to prioritize my life as my son did. Oh Father, if I could grasp ahold of its purpose and significance each morn, ponder into my mind, heart, and soul throughout each moment of a busy day and rest peacefully with it at night. Every SECOND that passes, my dash is making history.
- Please, please, take 3 short minutes to view the clip at the bottom of this page on links. The message is powerful, the scenery is breathtaking, and the music is heavenly. I believe this message can be life-changing for each of us. I have added "he" in lieu of "she" for Dakota and the parenthesis' emphasis are mine. This inspiration is written by Linda Ellis.
The Dash
I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend. He referred to the dates on his tombstone from beginning to end.
He noted that first came the date of his birth and spoke of those days with tears, but he said what matters most of all was the dash between the years. For that dash represents all the time (the short time) he spent on earth and how only those who loved him know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not the (power)...the cars....the house....the cash. What matters is how we love and live. Love like we never loved before. So think about it long and hard. Are there things you need to change? There is still little time left on how it can be rearranged.
If we could just slow enough to see what's true and real....and be less quick to anger... show appreciation more, love the people in our life, and try to understand people more. If we'd treat each other with respect, forgive daily, and often wear a smile.. remember that this special dash may only last a little while.
So when your eulogy is read, would you be proud of the things they say - with life's actions to rehash... how you spent your dash.
Monday, February 4, 2008 2:06 PM CST
"But Mary treasured up all these things and PONDERED them in her heart." Luke 2:l9
This week and the weeks to come mark the hardest moments of our lives as a mother, father, brother, grandparent, aunt, uncle, cousin, or friend. Dakota would have been 17 years old this week, February 7.
I can't find the words to write as a mother..... therefore, I too, ponder things deep in my heart.
...And a sword will PIERCE your own soul too." Luke 2:35
Dakota was worth every tear I shed. The Lord stores them in a vial and counts every one. That is the COMFORTER demonstrating His love in the purest form.
God bless you and "keep the faith" with me.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007 6:08 AM CST
The Full Stocking, The Empty Stocking
The two stockings that hang on my mantle teach me so much about life. One is full, therefore I realize the awesome responsibility that lies before me. The other is empty and my opportunity is forever gone.
As long as I am filling a stocking I realize I still have a huge opportunity. It's not about the material things that are placed inside for Christmas morning, but the day to day teachable moments that mold his precious mind and heart....praying for him, what he sees me doing OR not doing, what he hears me say, or perhaps worse...him trying to figure out why I didn't make a stand for what was right. I AM helping to mold his character and I don't take that responsibility lightly. Yes, I have moments I'm lackadasical and inconsistent. Forgive me Father, and help me to do better just for TODAY for tommorrow I will need to ask all over again. Thank you Father for the countless ways he teaches me each day.
I can no longer fill the other stocking. His time was way too short. I pray that I used my time wisely and made the most of every opportunity that I had. Only YOU, Heavenly Father, can take care of him now and You are MORE than enough. You, Father, can give him him what I cannot...life after death, freedom from pain and suffering, jewels in his crown, wipe away his tears forever, and You make no mistakes. I totally TRUST YOU Father in caring for him from here on. I remember how he longed to be with You as he was growing weak. I remember how he loved You and NEVER blamed You, but praised You in the storm. He truly knew he was Your's and he was bought with a price. (The precious blood of Your Son, Jesus, on that cruel cross.) He filled my heart in ways I cannot pen or vocalize.
So this Christmas may I focus on The Giver of all things and not the fullness or emptiness thereof. May I make the most of every moment. I cannot change Your will of days gone by, "The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away." I thank You for the gifts of my precious children. I want to be "found faithful" for the task that is still before me.
My heart is so full, yet so empty. May yours be full this season and may you allow God to fill your empty spaces. Love your children like there is no tommorrow! May you fill each stocking with what really counts: love, hope, and peace.
As Dakota would say, "Keep the Faith guys!"
Sharon
Wednesday, December 12, 2007 8:31 AM CST
Part I:
I have so much on my heart so I will continue my thoughts over the next month through the Christmas season and new year. I thank you for your recent entries and personal emails to me lately. My tears still flow more often than you know, but I hope my smile has returned.
As I've said before, I look at life and eternity differently now. I use to look at them seperately many times through the clouds (darkness). Now I can see them through the sunshine (light) much clearer than before. We have such purpose here. Eternity is the beginning and life is the test. Max Lucado says it well, "Life is the front porch to the big estate." How we live our lives and the decisions we make or don't make affect both. God gives each of us a free will to choose.
Here are just a few themes on my heart.....Whether or not I can write about them, only God knows.
Our Purpose While Here
Don't wait for trials to change you
The Full Stocking, The Empty Stocking
Loving the Needy
Accountablity for those we elect and/or those we don't elect
Role Models for our children...Church, Sports, School/College, Community & Beyond
Answered Prayer, Unanswered Prayer
*************************************************
Today I sobbed as I read my "Streams in the Desert" devotional that seemed to be written about my brave soldier, Dakota. He always wanted to be a soldier from early on. He would create a war scene in our front yard with his brother and friends. Dakota was ALWAYS the commander in charge! We have many war movies on video that have been just too painful to watch. Little did I know that he was undergoing training at a young age to prepare for the biggest battle known to man....defeating cancer! Cancer is the devil in disguise. Cancer did not win and neither did GVHD. God won! Dakota was victorious because Jesus Christ lived in him. The devil could not touch his precious soul, but only his body (tent). "Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, and eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands." II Cor 5:1
Taken from Streams in the Desert
"I have already been poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4 : 6-7 (This scripture was spoken of and written in the eulogy at Dakota's funeral service and is also a marking on his tombstone.)
Just as old soldiers compare their battle scars and stories of war when they get together, when we arrive at our heavenly home, we will tell of the goodness and faithfulness of God, who brought us through every trial along the way. I would not like to stand with the multitude clothed in robes made "white in the blood of the Lamb" (Rev. 7:14) and hear these words: " 'These are they who have come out of great tribulation' - all except you."
How would you like to stand there and be pointed out as the only saint who never experienced sorrow? Never! You would feel like a stranger in the midst of a sacred fellowship. Therefore may we be content to share in the battle, for we will soon wear a crown of reward and wave a palm branch of praise. Charles Spurgeon
During the American Civil War, at the battle of Lookout, Mountain, Tennessee, (Hawk and I took the boys there in summer of 2000. The boys were 9 & 7.), a surgeon asked a soldier where he was hurt. The wounded soldier answereed, "Right near the top of the mountain." He was not thinking of his gaping wound but was only remembering that he had won the ground near the top of the mountain.
May we go forth to higher endeavors for Christ, never resting until we can shout from the mountaintop , "I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
Finish your work, then rest,
Till then rest never;
Since rest for you with God
Is rest forever.
God will examine your life not for medals, diplomas, or degrees but for battle scars.
A medieval singer once sang of his hero:
With his trusty sword of aid;
Ornament it carried none,
But the notches on the blade.
What nobler medal of honor could any godly person seek than the scars of service, personal loss for the crown of reward, disgrace for the sake of Christ, and being worn out in the Master's service!
***********************************************************
Why not let Jesus Christ reside in your heart this Christmas and new year and become a soldier for Christ?
Have a blessed holiday season.
"Keep the Faith" Alive,
Sharon
Please pray for Job who had a lung transplant yesterday. Also pray for Baby Ethan Powell whose cancer returned following transplant.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007 8:31 AM CST
Part I:
I have so much on my heart so I will continue my thoughts over the next month through the Christmas season and new year. I thank you for your recent entries and personal emails to me lately. My tears still flow more often than you know, but I hope my smile has returned.
I look at life and eternity differently now. I use to look at them seperately many times through the clouds (darkness). Now I can see them through the sunshine (light) much more clearer than before. Eternity is the beginning and life is the test. Max Lucado says it best, "Life is the front porch to the big estate." How we live our lives and the decisions we make or don't make affect both. God gives each of us a free will to choose.
Here are just a few themes on my heart.....
Don't wait for trials to change you
The Full Stocking, The Empty Stocking
Loving the Needy
Accountablity for those we elect and/or those we don't elect
Role Models for our children...Church, Sports, School/College, Community & Beyond
Answered Prayer, Unanswered Prayer
*************************************************
Today I sobbed as I read my "Streams in the Desert" devotional that seemed to be written about my brave soldier, Dakota. He always wanted to be a soldier from early on. He would create a war scene in our front yard with his brother and friends. Dakota was ALWAYS the commander in charge! We have many war movies on video that have been just too painful to watch. Little did I know that he was undergoing training at a young age to prepare for the biggest battle known to man....defeating cancer! Cancer is the devil in disguise. Cancer did not win and neither did GVHD. God won! Dakota was victorious because Jesus Christ lived in him. The devil could not touch his precious soul, but only his body (tent). "Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, and eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands." II Cor 5:1
Taken from Streams in the Desert
"I have already been poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4 : 6-7 (This scripture was spoken of and written in the eulogy at Dakota's funeral service and is also a marking on his tombstone.)
Just as old soldiers compare their battle scars and stories of war when they get together, when we arrive at our heavenly home, we will tell of the goodness and faithfulness of God, who brought us through every trial along the way. I would not like to stand with the multitude clothed in robes made "white in the blood of the Lamb" (Rev. 7:14) and hear these words: " 'These are they who have come out of great tribulation' - all except you."
How would you like to stand there and be pointed out as the only saint who never experienced sorrow? Never! You would feel like a stranger in the midst of a sacred fellowship. Therefore may we be content to share in the battle, for we will soon wear a crown of reward and wave a palm branch of praise. Charles Spurgeon
During the American Civil War, at the battle of Lookout, Mountain, Tennessee, (Hawk and I took the boys there in summer of 2000. The boys were 9 & 7.), a surgeon asked a soldier where he was hurt. The wounded soldier answereed, "Right near the top of the mountain." He was not thinking of his gaping wound but was only remembering that he had won the ground near the top of the mountain.
May we go forth to higher endeavors for Christ, never resting until we can shout from the mountaintop , "I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
Finish your work, then rest,
Till then rest never;
Since rest for you with God
Is rest forever.
God will examine your life not for medals, diplomas, or degrees but for battle scars.
A medieval singer once sang of his hero:
With his trusty sword of aid;
Ornament it carried none,
But the notches on the blade.
What nobler medal of honor could any godly person seek than the scars of service, personal loss for the crown of reward, disgrace fo the sake of Christ, and being worn out in the Master's service!
***********************************************************
Why not let Jesus Christ reside in your heart this Christmas and new year and become a soldier for Christ?
Have a blessed holiday season.
"Keep the Faith" Alive,
Sharon
Please pray for Job who had a lung transplant yesterday. Also pray for Baby Ethan Powell whose cancer returned following transplant.
Tues. Nov. 20, 2007 7 PM CDT
We have MUCH to be thankful for this season, yet soooo much we miss. Dakota's favorite was pumpkin pie and just two years ago he, Ry and I sat down at the table and made pies together. Soooo many emotions as the holidays approach.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and may God anoint His most bountiful blessings upon you and yours.
Our new email address is hawkins980@centurytel.net
Tues. Oct. 30, 2007
The study of Ecc. 5-12 is to come, but today I felt I should make a tribute to my husband and son. While I chose to grieve in private, Henry and Riley did NOT have that freedom. Today's "Stream in the Desert" made me think of them. Thank you, Father, for the wonderful family that I have.
"Let us run with patience." (Hebrews 12:1)
Running "with patience" is a very difficult thing to do. The word "running" itself suggests the absence of patience, or an eagerness to reach the goal. Yet we often associate patience with lying down or standing still. We think of it as an angel who guards the bed of the disabled. Yet I do not believe this is the hardest to achieve.
There is another kind of patience that I believe is hard to obtain - the patience that runs. Lying down during a time of grief, or being quiet after a financial setback, certainly implies great strength, but I know of something that suggests even greater strength - the power to continue working after a setback, the power to still run with a heavy heart, and the power to perform your daily tasks with deep sorrow in your spirit. This is a Christlike thing!
Many of us could tearlessly deal with our grief if only we were allowed to do so in private. Yet what is so difficult is that most of us are called to exercise our patience not in solitude, but in the open street, for all to see. We are called upon to bury our sorrows not in restful inactivity but in active service - in our workplace, while shopping and during social events (my paraphrase.... on the job, at church, at school, in meetings, on the football field, in the stands, with family/friends, etc.) contributing to other people's joy. No other way of burying our sorrow is a difficult as this, for it is truly what is meant by "running with patience."
Dear Son of Man, this was Your kind of patience. It was both waiting and running at one time - waiting for the ultimate goal while in the meantime doing lesser (lowly) work. I see You at Cana of Galilee, turning water into wine so the marriage feast would not be ruined. I see You in the desert, feeding the multitude with bread, simply to relieve a temporary need. Yet all the time, You were bearing a mighty grief - not shared or spoken. Others may ask for a " rainbow in the clouds" (Gen. 9:13), but I would ask for even more from You. Make me, in my cloud, a rainbow bringing the ministry of joy to others. My patience will only be perfect when it works in Your vineyard. George Matheson
When all our hopes are gone,
It is best our hands keep toiling on
For other's sake:
For strength to bear is found in duty done;
And he is best indeed who learns to make
The joy of others cure his own heartache.
"Keep the Faith" With Me!
Sharon
Please pray for Job McCully, Natalie Hightower, & Baby Ethan Powell.
www.caringbridge.org/ar/job
www.caringbridge.org/visit/nataliehightower
www.caringbridge.org/vistit/ethanpowell
Tuesday, October 30, 2007 9:18 AM CDT
The study of Ecc. 5-12 is to come, but today I felt I should make a tribute to my husband and son. While I chose to grieve in private, Henry and Riley did NOT have that freedom. Today's "Stream in the Desert" made me think of them. Thank you, Father, for the wonderful family that I have.
"Let us run with patience." (Hebrews 12:1)
Running "with patience" is a very difficult thing to do. The word "running" itself suggests the absence of patience, or an eagerness to reach the goal. Yet we often associate patience with lying down or standing still. We think of it as an angel who guards the bed of the disabled. Yet I do not believe this is the hardest to achieve.
There is another kind of patience that I believe is hard to obtain - the patience that runs. Lying down during a time of grief, or being quiet after a financial setback, certainly implies great strength, but I know of something that suggests even greater strength - the power to continue working after a setback, the power to still run with a heavy heart, and the power to perform your daily tasks with deep sorrow in your spirit. This is a Christlike thing!
Many of us could tearlessly deal with our grief if only we were allowed to do so in private. Yet what is so difficult is that most of us are called to exercise our patience not in solitude, but in the open street, for all to see. We are called upon to bury our sorrows not in restful inactivity but in active service - in our workplace, while shopping and during social events (my paraphrase.... on the job, at church, at school, in meetings, on the football field, in the stands, with family/friends, etc.) contributing to other to other's people's joy. No other way of burying our sorrow is a difficult as this, for it is truly what is meant by "running with patience."
Dear Son of Man, this was Your kind of patience. It was both waiting and running at one time - waiting for the ultimate goal while in the meantime doing lesser (lowly) work. I see You at Cana of Galilee, turning water into wine so the marriage feast would not be ruined. I see You in the desert, feeding the multitude with bread, simply to relieve a temporary need. Yet all the time, You were bearing a mighty grief - not shared or spoken. Others may ask for a " rainbow in the clouds" (Gen. 9:13), but I would ask for even more from You. Make me, in my cloud, a rainbow bringing the ministry of joy to others. May patience will only be perfect when it works in Your vineyard. George Matheson
When all our hopes are gone,
It is best our hands keep toiling on
For other's sake:
For strength to bear is found in duty done;
And he is best indeed who lerns to make
The joy of others cure his own heartache.
"Keep the Faith" With Me!
Sharon
Please pray for Job McCully, Natalie Hightower, & Baby Ethan Powell.
www.caringbridge.org/ar/job
www.caringbridge.org/visit/nataliehightower
www.caringbridge.org/vistit/ethanpowell
Tuesday, October 30, 2007 9:18 AM CDT
The study of Ecc. 5-12 is to come, but today I felt I should make a tribute to my husband and son. While I chose to grieve in private, Henry and Riley did NOT have that freedom. Today's "Stream in the Desert" made me think of them. Thank you, Father, for the wonderful family that I have.
"Let us run with patience." (Hebrews 12:1)
Running "with patience" is a very difficult thing to do. The word "running" itself suggests the absence of patience, or an eagerness to reach the goal. Yet we often associate patience with lying down or standing still. We think of it as an angel who guards the bed of the disabled. Yet I do not believe this is the hardest to achieve.
There is another kind of patience that I believe is hard to obtain - the patience that runs. Lying down during a time of grief, or being quiet after a finacial setback, certainly implies great strength, but I know of something that suggests even greater strength - the power to continue working after a setback, the power to still run with a heavy heart, and the power to perform your daily tasks with deep sorrow in your spirit. This is a Christlike thing!
Many of us could tearlessly deal with our grief if only we were allowed to do so in private. Yet what is so difficult is that most of us are called to exercise our patience not in solitude, but in the open street, for all to see. We are called upon to bury our sorrows not in restful inactivity but in active service - in our workplace, while shopping and during social events (my paraphrase.... on the job, at church, at school, in meetings, on the football field, in the stands, with family/friends, etc.) contributing to other to other's people's joy. No other way of burying our sorrow is a difficult as this, for it is truly what is meant by "running with patience."
Dear Son of Man, this was Your kind of patience. It was both waiting and running at one time - waiting for the ultimate goal while in the meantime doing lesser (lowly) work. I see You at Cana of Galilee, turning water into wine so the marriage feast would not be ruined. I see You in the desert, feeding the multitude with bread, simply to relieve a temporary need. Yet all the time, You were bearing a mighty grief - not shared or spoken. Others may ask for a " rainbow in the clouds" (Gen. 9:13), but I would ask for even more from You. Make me, in my cloud, a rainbow bringing the ministry of joy to others. May patience will only be perfect when it works in Your vineyard. George Matheson
When all our hopes are gone,
It is best our hands keep toiling on
For other's sake:
For strength to bear is found in duty done;
And he is best indeed who lerns to make
The joy of others cure his own heartache.
"Keep the Faith" With Me!
Sharon
Please pray for Job McCully, Natalie Hightower, & Baby Ethan Powell.
www.caringbridge.org/ar/job
www.caringbridge.org/visit/nataliehightower
www.caringbridge.org/vistit/ethanpowell
Tuesday, October 30, 2007 9:18 AM CDT
The study of Ecc. 5-12 is to come, but today I felt I should make a tribute to my husband and son. While I chose to grieve in private, Henry and Riley did NOT have that freedom. Today's "Stream in the Desert" made me think of them. Thank you, Father, for the wonderful family that I have.
"Let us run with patience." (Hebrews 12:1)
Running "with patience" is a very difficult thing to do. The word "running" itself suggests the absence of patience, or an eagerness to reach the goal. Yet we often associate patience with lying down or standing still. We think of it as an angel who guards the bed of the disabled. Yet I do not believe this is the hardest to achieve.
There is another kind of patience that I believe is hard to obtain - the patience that runs. Lying down during a time of grief, or being quiet ater a finacial setback, certainly implies great strength, but I know of something that suggests even greater strength - the power to continue working after a setback, the power to still run with a heavy heart, and the power to perform your daily tasks with deep sorrow in your spirit. This is a Christlike thing!
Many of us could tearlessly deal with our grief if only we were allowed to do so in private. Yet what is so difficult is that most of us are called to exercise our patience not in solitude, but in the open street, for all to see. We are called upon to bury our sorrows not in restful inactivity but in active service - in our workplace, while shopping and during social events (my paraphrase.... on the job, at church, at school, in meetings, on the football field, in the stands, with family/friends, etc.) contributing to other to other's people's joy. No other way of burying our sorrow is a difficult as this, for it is truly what is meant by "running with patience."
Dear Son of Man, this was Your kind of patience. It was both waiting and running at one time - waiting for the ultimate goal while in the meantime doing lesser (lowly) work. I see You at Cana of Galilee, turning water into wine so the marriage feast would not be ruined. I see You in the desert, feeding the multitude with bread, simply to relieve a temporary need. Yet all the time, You were bearing a mighty grief - not shared or spoken. Others may ask for a " rainbow in the clouds" (Gen. 9:13), but I would ask for even more from You. Make me, in my cloud, a rainbow bringing the ministry of joy to others. May patience will only be perfect when it works in Your vineyard. George Matheson
When all our hopes are gone,
It is best our hands keep toiling on
For other's sake:
For strength to bear is found in duty done;
And he is best indeed who lerns to make
The joy of others cure his own heartache.
"Keep the Faith" With Me!
Sharon
Please pray for Job McCully, Natalie Hightower, & Baby Ethan Powell.
www.caringbridge.org/ar/job
www.caringbridge.org/visit/nataliehightower
www.caringbridge.org/vistit/ethanpowell
Tuesday, October 30, 2007 9:18 AM CDT
The study of Ecc. 5-12 is to come, but today I felt I should make a tribute to my husband and son. While I chose to grieve in private, Henry and Riley did NOT have that freedom. Today's "Stream in the Desert" made me think of them. Thank you, Father, for the wonderful family that I have.
"Let us run with patience." (Hebrews 12:1)
Running "with patience" is a very difficult thing to do. The word "running" itself suggests the absence of patience, or an eagerness to reach the goal. Yet we often associate patience with lying down or standing still. We think of it as an angel who guards the bed of the disabled. Yet I do not believe this is the hardest to achieve.
There is another kind of patience that I believe is hard to obtain - the patience that runs. Lying down during a tme of grief, or being quiet ater a finacial setback, certainly implies great strength, but I know of something that suggests even greater strength - the power to continue working after a setback, the power to still run with a heavy heart, and the power to perform your daily tasks with deep sorrow in your spirit. This is a Christlike thing!
Many of us could tearlessly deal with our grief if only we were allowed to do so in private. Yet what is so difficult is that most of us arecalled to exercise our patience not in solitude, but in the open street, for all to see. We are called upon to bury our sorrows not in restful inactivity but in active service - in our workplace, while shopping and during social events (my paraphrase.... on the job, at church, at school, in meetings, on the football field, in the stands, with family/friends, etc.) contributing to other to other's people's joy. No other way of burying our sorrow is a difficult as this, for it is truly what is meant by "running with patience."
Dear Son of Man, this was Your kind of patience. It was both waiting and running at one time - waiting for the ultimate goal while in the meantime doing lesser (lowly) work. I see You at Cana of Galilee, turning water into wine so the marriage feast would not be ruined. I see You in the desert, feeding the multitude with bread, simply to relieve a temporary need. Yet all the time, You were bearing a mighty grief - not shared or spoken. Others may ask for a " rainbow in the clouds" (Gen. 9:13), but I would ask for even more from You. Make me, in my cloud, a rainbow bringing the ministry of joy to others. May patience will only be perfect when it works in Your vineyard. George Matheson
When all our hopes are gone,
It is best our hands keep toiling on
For other's sake:
For strength to bear is found in duty done;
And he is best indeed who lerns to make
The joy of others cure his own heartache.
"Keep the Faith" With Me!
Sharon
Please pray for Job McCully, Natalie Hightower, & Baby Ethan Powell.
www.caringbridge.org/ar/job
www.caringbridge.org/visit/nataliehightower
www.caringbridge.org/vistit/ethanpowell
Wednesday, October 17, 2007 1:53 PM CDT
Ecclesiastes (con't)
I often observe how people search for something to hold on to in life, but they look in all the wrong places and come up short, dissappointed, afraid, and discouraged. They are afraid to give their life over to God because there may be something dramatic they will have to change. Therefore, they continue to search, but do not find.
God so desires to give us a sweet peace in our daily walk. It is essential for survival as far as I'm concerned because "peace surpasses all understanding!" If I did not have hope of seeing Dakota again, I could not survive. Hope is a gift God wants to bestow upon each of us. And we find it in ONLY through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
King Solomon, son of David, was the King of Israel and had it all except making meaning out of life. Many passages are suggestive that he lacked peace. Perhaps in his latter years he found it. He was the wisest and wealthiest King of Israel, but he had experienced pleasures, wisdom, and wealth and described them all as "utterly meaningless!" (Ecc. 1:2)
"What does a man gain form all his labor at which he toils under the sun? Generations come and generations go, but the earth reamins forever. The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises....There is nothing new under the sun....I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to sutdy and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men! I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind. What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted. For with wisdom comes much sorrow; and the more knowledge, the more grief.....I thought in my heart, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good...I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained unter the sun.....So I hated life....So my heart began to despair over all my toilsome labor under the sun. For a man may do his work with wisdom, knowledge and skill, and then he must leave all he earns to someone who has not worked for it . This too is meaningless and a great misfortune...." (Ecc 1 & 2 in parts)
The Teacher seems to ask, What gives lasting meaning to life? Only in God does life have meaning. We are made by God, to honor God, to love God, and to liken to His image. Without God, nothing satisfies. The author affirms the reality and goodness of God and a need for God. "He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live....I know everything that God does will endure forever. Nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him." (Ecc 3)
The writer concludes that God's people find meaning in life when they accept that everything is from the hand of God. He clearly understands that the world is so vast, beyond our comprehension. Without God, life just doesn't make sense. If only we could live our lives in reverse and could absorb Godly wisdom at a young age, then live it out. Our mistakes would be fewer and our hearts more carefree. Oh, how Hawk, Riley, and I observed our son and brother do this! Through a tough diagnosis and suffering, Dakota became strong and wise as he humbly accepted God's divine appointment for his life.
Solomon's greatest wisdom obviously came in his latter years, and he looks back and boldly states, "And I declared that the dead who had already died are happier than the living who are still alive." (Ecc 4:2) By faith, we can see a bigger picture. God allows us a small glimpse here of how wonderful eternity will be. Do you have that to look forward to? Like the Apostle Paul, I have days my spirit "groans" (aches) for eternity.
As long as we have breath in us, it's not too late to change. Don't wait for something dramatic to have to happen. Searching for real substance? Pick up the word of God right now and ask Him to guide you.
"Keep the Faith" Always,
Sharon
******************************************************
P/S I plan on continuing in Ecc. The themes of upcoming chapters are Standing in Awe of God, Obeying the King's Commands, The Soul...A Common Destiny For Us All. I invite you to study this great book along with me. There are only 12 chapters and I just couldn't put it down.
Please pray for Job! www.caringbridge.org/ar/job
He desperately needs a lung transplant for survival. He has been in the hospital all year!
Please pray for our friend in Texas, Natalie, who was just diagnosed with AML. She had major complications to the lungs after her first chemo and is on a ventilator. www.caringbridge.org/visit/nataliehightower
Still no sign of Truck!:( Any info on his whereabouts will be greatly appreciated. Please, please look closely at every black lab you see!
Go CJHS...Beat Bryant!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007 1:53 PM CDT
Ecclesiastes (con't)
I've often observe how people search for something to hold on to in life, but they look in all the wrong places and come up short, dissappointed, afraid, and discouraged. They are afraid to give their life over to God because there may be something dramatic they will have to change. Therefore, they continue to search, but do not find.
God so desires to give us a sweet peace in our daily walk. It is essential for survival as far as I'm concerned because "peace surpasses all understanding!" If I did not have hope of seeing Dakota again, I could not survive. Hope is a gift God wants to bestow upon each of us. And we find it in ONLY through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
King Solomon, son of David, was the King of Israel and had it all except making meaning out of life. Many passages are suggestive that he lacked peace. Perhaps in his latter years he found it. He was the wisest and wealthiest King of Israel, but he had experienced pleasures, wisdom, and wealth and described them all as "utterly meaningless!" (Ecc. 1:2)
"What does a man gain form all his labor at which he toils under the sun? Generations come and generations go, but the earth reamins forever. The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises....There is nothing new under the sun....I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to sutdy and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men! I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind. What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted. For with wisdom comes much sorrow; and the more knowledge, the more grief.....I thought in my heart, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good...I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained unter the sun.....So I hated life....So my heart began to despair over all my toilsome labor under the sun. For a man may do his work with wisdom, knowledge and skill, and then he must leave all he earns to someone who has not worked for it . This too is meaningless and a great misfortune...." (Ecc 1 & 2 in parts)
The Teacher seems to ask, What gives lasting meaning to life? Only in God does life have meaning. We are made by God, to honor God, to love God, and to liken to His image. Without God, nothing satisfies. The author affirms the reality and goodness of God and a need for God. "He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good whle they live....I know everything that God does will endure forever. Nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him." (Ecc 3)
The writer concludes that God's people find meaning in life when they accept that everything is from the hand of God. He clearly understands that the world is so vast, beyond our comprehension. Without God, life just doesn't make sense. If only we could live our lives in reverse and could absorb Godly wisdom at a young age, then live it out. Our mistakes would be fewer and our hearts more carefree. Oh, how Hawk, Riley, and I observed our son and brother do this! Through a tough diagnosis and suffering, he became strong and wise as he humbly accepted God's divine appointment for his life.
Solomon's greatest wisdom obviously came in his latter years, and he looks back and boldly states, "And I declared that the dead who had already died are happier than the living who are still alive." (Ecc 4:2) By faith, we can see a bigger picture. God allows us a small glimpse here of how wonderful eternity will be. Do you have that to look forward to? Like the Apostle Paul, I have days my spirit "groans" (aches) for eternity.
As long as we have breath in us, it's not too late to change. Don't wait for something dramatic to have to happen. Searching for real substance? Pick up the word of God right now and ask Him to guide you.
"Keep the Faith" Always,
Sharon
******************************************************
P/S I plan on continuing in Ecc. The themes of upcoming chapters are Standing in Awe of God, Obeying the King's Commands, The Soul...A Common Destiny For Us All. I invite you to study this great book along with me. There are only 12 chapters and I just couldn't put it down.
Please pray for Job! www.caringbridge.org/ar/job
He desperately needs a lung transplant for survival. He has been in the hospital all year!
Still no sign of Truck!:( Any info on his whereabouts will be greatly appreciated. Look closely at every black lab you see!
Go CJHS...Beat Bryant!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007 1:53 PM CDT
Ecclesiastes (con't)
I've often observed how people search for something to hold on to in life, but they look in all the wrong places and come up short, dissappointed, afraid, and discouraged. They are afraid to give their life over to God because there may be something dramatic they will have to change. Therefore, they continue to search, but do not find.
God so desires to give us a sweet peace in our daily walk. It is essential for survival as far as I'm concerned because "peace surpasses all understanding!" If I did not have hope of seeing Dakota again, I could not survive. Hope is a gift God wants to bestow upon each of us. And we find it in ONLY through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
King Solomon, son of David, was the King of Israel and had it all except making meaning out of life. Many passages are suggestive that he lacked peace. Perhaps in his latter years he found it. He was the wisest and wealthiest King of Israel, but he had experienced pleasures, wisdom, and wealth and described them all as "utterly meaningless!" (Ecc. 1:2)
"What does a man gain form all his labor at which he toils under the sun? Generations come and generations go, but the earth reamins forever. The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises....There is nothing new under the sun....I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to sutdy and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men! I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind. What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted. For with wisdom comes much sorrow; and the more knowledge, the more grief.....I thought in my heart, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good...I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained unter the sun.....So I hated life....So my heart began to despair over all my toilsome labor under the sun. For a man may do his work with wisdom, knowledge and skill, and then he must leave all he earns to someone who has not worked for it . This too is meaningless and a great misfortune...." (Ecc 1 & 2 in parts)
The Teacher seems to ask, What gives lasting meaning to life? Only in God does life have meaning. We are made by God, to honor God, to love God, and to liken to His image. Without God, nothing satisfies. The author affirms the reality and goodness of God and a need for God. "He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good whle they live....I know everything that God does will endure forever. Nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him." (Ecc 3)
The writer concludes that God's people find meaning in life when they accept that everything is from the hand of God. He clearly understands that the world is so vast, beyond our comprehension. Without God, life just doesn't make sense. If only we could live our lives in reverse and could absorb Godly wisdom at a young age, then live it out. Our mistakes would be fewer and our hearts more carefree. Oh, how Hawk, Riley, and I observed our son and brother do this! Through a tough diagnosis and suffering, he became strong and wise as he humbly accepted God's divine appointment for his life.
Solomon's greatest wisdom obviously came in his latter years, and he looks back and boldly states, "And I declared that the dead who had already died are happier than the living who are still alive." (Ecc 4:2) By faith, we can see a bigger picture. God allows us a small glimpse here of how wonderful eternity will be. Do you have that to look forward to? Like the Apostle Paul, I have days my spirit "groans" (aches) for eternity.
As long as we have breath in us, it's not too late to change. Don't wait for something dramatic to have to happen. Searching for real substance? Pick up the word of God right now and ask Him to guide you.
"Keep the Faith" Always,
Sharon
******************************************************
P/S I plan on continuing in Ecc. The themes of upcoming chapters are Standing in Awe of God, Obeying the King's Commands, The Soul...A Common Destiny For Us All. I invite you to study this great book along with me. There are only 12 chapters and I just couldn't put it down.
Please pray for Job! www.caringbridge.org/ar/job
He desperately needs a lung transplant for survival. He has been in the hospital all year!
Still no sign of Truck!:( Any info on his whereabouts will be greatly appreciated. Look closely at every black lab you see!
Go CJHS...Beat Bryant!
Monday, October 15, 2007 7:20 PM CDT
Still no sign of Dakota's dog, "Truck," who is a 4 year old, male, black lab with white in the breast area. He LOVES people and is very friendly and smart. I answer every lead and have had a lot of calls, but to no avail. I will NOT give up on finding this dog. He is wearing a flea collar, but had lost his identification collar. :( A picture that Dakota had taken and put on his cell phone is now in the photo album. Please take a look at Truck and be on the outlook for us Cabot! A link to my email is at the bottom of the screen! Thanks Much, Sharon
Sunday, Oct. 14, 2007 12:30 PM CDT
A life not centered on God is purposeless and meaningless. As I open God's word lately it seems He is leading me to the book of Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament. So I have searched the pages endlessly. I've learned much about life from old, wise, King Solomon, who likely is the author of this great book during his last days. Change and different seasons are evident in our lives and it has seemingly dominated the last almost 5 years of ours. I'll park in this great book and share as God so leads me.
A Time for Everything Ecc. 3:1-8
There is a time for everthing, and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a tme to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace annd a time to refrain,
a time to search and a time to give up,
a timeto keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
God's sovereignty predetermines each change/season of our lives. His will shall be done no matter what we pray for. So why do we fight His will? Are we afraid our will will not conform to His? Are we afraid of the trials, losses, and brokeness that may accompany His will? Why can't we pray for "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven" like Jesus did in the Lord's prayer in Matthew 6? I've struggled with this long enough. I have much to say when it is TIME.
God bless and keep you this week.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
Friday, October 12, 2007 5:32 PM CDT
I was hesitant about putting this on the website then I realized that is exactly what Dakota WOULD do! Dakota's dog, "Truck" is missing. He is a beautiful black lab with with white on his breast area. Truck is very friendly and about 4 years old. He should still have his flea collar on, but had recently lost his identification collar. We are just sick about it. You can only imagine how valuable this dog is to us. I will post a picture of Truck asap. Any leads, leave us a message and we'll get in touch with you!
Many, many thanks.
Keeping the Faith,
Always Hawkins 4
Tuesday, August 21, 2007 10:16 AM CDT
Losing A Child
I can only write from my own experiences of losing a child whom I loved with every ounce of strength I had. I'm clueless on how many still visit Dakota's site. Often I cross the paths of people who say they still check the site as part of their daily routine. Today, I write to those mothers out there who also long to be with their child again. The commonalities draw us together, give us hope, and help us to realize that FAITH is not based on what the world can give, but based on the unseen...The eternal.
The pain in my heart as a mother can be indescribable. The ache is so dramatic at times that I feel like my heart is being constantly slain with a sharp knife. Sometimes deep within my own heart is a literal, physical pain of an intense heat in which I feel my heart is bleeding internally. I can't help but remember the days of sickness, weakness, and suffering I witnessed Dakota go through. A mother doesn't forget. The emotion is so great that it is all-consuming, leaving behind a numbness that makes the easiest task seem difficult. After many tears AND reading God's word, I feel a peace again in my soul. I often think of how the God of the universe must have felt as He watched His own son suffer willingly on that cross.
I long to be by myself more than ever before. Only then can I let my tears freely fall (knowing God is measuring every one), experience God fully, and envision what the future holds when I see my Savior face to face and He gently leads me to see Dakota again and hold the unborn child we lost in 1998.
God alone brings me "peace that passes all understanding." A mother NEVER gets over losing her child, but learns how to live with the hope of a better day coming when God will make all things right. My goals, my purpose, my prayers, and my plans have all changed with my loss. It's amazing how I use to think I had my life all figured out. Ha ... God had His own plan and I've had to conform to His will whether I agreed or not. Do I ever ask the tough questions to God? Yes, and He seems to constantly reveal to me that I must continue trusting in Him and all my answers may not come in this lifetime. Every step of the grieving process is just that, a step and a process. God desires to walk with us hand in hand through each one, but we must allow Him.
As school starts, football season begins, and busy schedules become even busier...I just miss Dakota all the more with the constant reminders of what he loved soooo much.....being with people, going to school, and football!
I thank God every day for giving us a strong, healthy, happy Riley. He keeps his dad and I going. As with each holiday and every new season brings a new set of emotions. I realize I'm blessed to have a God who is the "lifter of my head" and loves me through every minute of every day through every season. I also thank God for my precious family and friends.
I will close with some scriptures and sentiments of comfort that have been a treasure to my heart this year.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
He will wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, nor pain. All of that is gone forever. Rev. 21:4
May God give you eyes to see beauty only the heart can understand.
A teardrop on earth summons the King of heaven.
Charles Swindoll
Sorrows come to stretch out spaces in the heart for joy. Edwin Markham
He is like a father to us, tender and sympathetic...The loving-kindness of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting, to those who reverence him.
Psalm 103:13,17
Those we hold most dear never leave us. They live on in the kindness they showed, the comfort they shared, and the love they brought into life. Norton
A caring heart and a simple deed can relieve another's grief. Janette Oke
Lord, help me to remain childlike in my appreciation for life. Please slow my down...that I may always see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Carol Hamblet Adams.
I have been trying to make the best of grief and am just beginning to learn to allow it to make the best of me. Barbara Ascher
Only in the darkness did I fully see the light.
"Keep the Faith" is a message that never stops being heard in the lives of others.
Cancer teaches us how to really live moment by moment.
To have loved much and to have been loved are truly life's greatest moments.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007 10:16 AM CDT
Losing A Child
I can only write from my own experiences of losing a child whom I loved with every ounce of strength I had. I'm clueless on how many still visit Dakota's site. Often I cross the paths of people who say they still check the site as part of their daily routine. Today, I write to those mothers out there who also long to be with their child again. The commonalities draw us together, give us hope, and help us to realize that FAITH is not based on what the world can give, but based on the unseen...The eternal.
The pain in my heart as a mother can be indescribable. The ache is so dramatic at times that I feel like my heart is being constantly slain with a sharp knife. Sometimes deep within my own heart is a literal, physical pain of an intense heat in which I feel my heart is bleeding internally. I can't help but remember the days of sickness, weakness, and suffering I witnessed Dakota go through. A mother doesn't forget. The emotion is so great that it is all-consuming, leaving behind a numbness that makes the easiest task seem difficult. After many tears AND reading God's word, I feel a peace again in my soul. I often think of how the God of the universe must have felt as He watched His own son suffer willingly on that cross.
I long to be by myself more than ever before. Only then can I let my tears freely fall (knowing God is measuring every one), experience God fully, and envision what the future holds when I see my Savior face to face and He gently leads me to see Dakota again and hold the unborn child we lost in 1998.
God alone brings me "peace that passes all understanding." A mother NEVER gets over losing her child, but learns how to live with the hope of a better day coming when God will make all things right. My goals, my purpose, my prayers, and my plans have all changed with my loss. It's amazing how I use to think I had my life all figured out. Ha ... God had His own plan and I've had to conform to His will whether I agreed or not. Do I ever ask the tough questions to God? Yes, and He seems to constantly reveal to me that I must continue trusting in Him and all my answers may not come in this lifetime. Every step of the grieving process is just that, a step and a process. God desires to walk with us hand in hand through each one, but we must allow Him.
As school starts, football season begins, and busy schedules become even busier...I just miss Dakota all the more with the constant reminders of what he loved soooo much.....being with people, going to school, and football!
I thank God every day for giving us a strong, healthy, happy Riley. He keeps his dad and I going. As with each holiday and every new season brings a new set of emotions. I realize I'm blessed to have a God who is the "lifter of my head" and loves me through every minute of every day through every season. I also thank God for my precious family and friends.
I will close with some scriptures and sentiments of comfort that have been a treasure to my heart this year.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
He will wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, nor pain. All of that is gone forever. Rev. 21:4
May God give you eyes to see beauty only the heart can understand.
A teardrop on earth summons the King of heaven.
Charles Swindoll
Sorrows come to stretch out spaces in the heart for joy. Edwin Markham
He is like a father to us, tender and sympathetic...The loving-kindness of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting, to those who reverence him.
Psalm 103:13,17
Those we hold most dear never leave us. They live on in the kindness they showed, the comfort they shared, and the love they brought into life. Norton
A caring heart and a simple deed can relieve another's grief. Janette Oke
Lord, help me to remain chilike in my appreciation for life. Please slow my down...that I may always see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Carol Hamblet Adams.
I have been trying to make the best of grief and am just beginning to learn to allow it to make the best of me. Barbara Ascher
Only in the darkness did I fully see the light.
"Keep the Faith" is a message that never stops being heard in the lives of others.
Cancer teaches us how to really live moment by moment.
To have loved much and to have been loved are truly life's greatest moments.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007 10:16 AM CDT
Losing A Child
I can only write from my own experiences of losing a child whom I loved with every ounce of strength I had. I'm clueless on how many still visit Dakota's site. Often I cross the paths of people who say they still check the site as part of their daily routine. Today, I write to those mothers out there who also long to be with their child again. The commonalities draw us together, give us hope, and help us to realize that FAITH is not based on what the world can give, but based on the unseen...The eternal.
The pain in my heart as a mother can be indescribable. The ache is so dramatic at times that I feel like my heart is being constantly slain with a sharp knife. Sometimes deep within my own heart is a literal, physical pain of an intense heat in which I feel my heart is bleeding internally. I can't help but remember the days of sickness, weakness, and suffering I witnessed Dakota go through. A mother doesn't forget. The emotion is so great that it is all-consuming, leaving behind a numbness that makes the easiest task seem difficult. After many tears AND reading God's word, I feel a peace again in my soul. I often think of how the God of the universe must have felt as He watched His own son suffer willingly on that cross.
I long to be by myself more than ever before. Only then can I let my tears freely fall (knowing God is measuring every one), experience God fully, and envision what the future holds when I see my Savior face to face and He gently leads me to see Dakota again and hold the unborn child we lost in 1998.
God alone brings me "peace that passes all understanding." A mother NEVER gets over losing her child, but learns how to live with the hope of a better day coming when God will make all things right. My goals, my purpose, my prayers, and my plans have all changed with my loss. It's amazing how I use to think I had my life all figured out. Ha ... God had His own plan and I've had to conform to His will whether I agreed or not. Do I ever ask the tough questions to God? Yes, and He seems to constantly reveal to me that I must continue trusting in Him and all my answers may not come in this lifetime. Every step of the grieving process is just that, a step and a process. God desires to walk with us hand in hand through each one, but we must allow Him.
As school starts, football season begins, and busy schedules become even busier...I just miss Dakota all the more with the constant reminders of what he loved soooo much.....being with people, going to school, and football!
I thank God every day for giving us a strong, healthy, happy Riley. He keeps his dad and I going. As with each holiday and every new season brings a new set of emotions. I realize I'm blessed to have a God who is the "lifter of my head" and loves me through every minute of every day through every season. I also thank God for my precious family and friends.
I will close with some scritures and sentiments of comfort that have been a treasure to my heart this year.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
He will wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, nor pain. All of that is gone forever. Rev. 21:4
May God give you eyes to see beauty only the heart can understand.
A teardrop on earth summons the King of heaven.
Charles Swindoll
Sorrows come to stretch out spaces in the heart for joy. Edwin Markham
He is like a father to us, tender and sympathetic...The loving-kindness of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting, to those who reverence him.
Psalm 103:13,17
Those we hold most dear never leave us. They live on in the kindness they showed, the comfort they shared, and the love they brought into life. Norton
A caring heart and a simple deed can relieve another's grief. Janette Oke
Lord, help me to remain chilike in my appreciation for life. Please slow my down...that I may always see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Carol Hamblet Adams.
I have been trying to make the best of grief and am just beginning to learn to allow it to make the best of me. Barbara Ascher
Only in the darkness did I fully see the light.
"Keep the Faith" is a message that never stops being heard in the lives of others.
Cancer teaches us how to really live moment by moment.
To have loved much and to have been loved are truly life's greatest moments.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007 10:16 AM CDT
Losing A Child
I can only write from my own experiences of losing a child whom I loved with every ounce of strength I had. I'm clueless on how many still visit Dakota's site. Often I cross the paths of people who say they still check the site as part of their daily routine. Today, I write to those mothers out there who also long to be with their child again. The commonalities draw us together, give us hope, and help us to realize that FAITH is not based on what the world can give, but based on the unseen...The eternal.
The pain in my heart as a mother can be indescribable. The ache is so dramatic at times that I feel like my heart is being constantly slain with a sharp knife. Sometimes deep within my own heart is a literal, physical pain of an intense heat in which I feel my heart is bleeding internally. I can't help but remember the days of sickness, weakness, and suffering I witnessed Dakota go through. A mother doesn't forget. The emotion is so great that it is all-consuming, leaving behind a numbness that makes the easiest task seem difficult. Then, I think of how God of the universe must have felt as He watched His own son suffer willingly on that cross.
I long to be by myself more than ever before. Only then can I let my tears freely fall (knowing God is measuring every one), experience God fully, and envision what the future holds when I see my Savior face to face and He gently leads me to see Dakota again and hold the unborn child we lost in 1998.
God alone brings me "peace that passes all understanding." A mother NEVER gets over losing her child, but learns how to live with the hope of a better day coming when God will make all things right. My goals, my purpose, my prayers, and my plans have all changed with my loss. It's amazing how I use to think I had my life all figured out. Ha ... God had His own plan and I've had to conform to His will whether I like it or not. Do I ever ask the tough questions to God? Yes, and He seems to constantly reveal to me that I must continue trusting in Him and all my answers may not come in this lifetime. Every step of the grieving process is just that, a step and a process. God desires to walk with us hand in hand through each one, but we must allow Him.
As school starts, football season begins, and busy schedules become even busier...I just miss Dakota all the more with the constant reminders of what he loved soooo much.....being with people, going to school, and football!
I thank God every day for giving us a strong, healthy, happy Riley. He keeps his dad and I going. As with each holiday and every new season brings a new set of emotions. I realize I'm blessed to have a God who is the "lifter of my head" and loves me through every minute of every day through every season. I also thank God for my precious family and friends.
I will close with some scritures and sentiments of comfort that have been a treasure to my heart this year.
Keep the Faith,
Sharon
He will wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying, nor pain. All of that is gone forever. Rev. 21:4
May God give you eyes to see beauty only the heart can understand.
A teardrop on earth summons the King of heaven.
Charles Swindoll
Sorrows come to stretch out spaces in the heart for joy. Edwin Markham
He is like a father to us, tender and sympathetic...The loving-kindness of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting, to those who reverence him.
Psalm 103:13,17
Those we hold most dear never leave us. They live on in the kindness they showed, the comfort they shared, and the love they brought into life. Norton
A caring heart and a simple deed can relieve another's grief. Janette Oke
Lord, help me to remain chilike in my appreciation for life. Please slow my down...that I may always see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Carol Hamblet Adams.
I have been trying to make the best of grief and am just beginning to learn to allow it to make the best of me. Barbara Ascher
Only in the darkness did I fully see the light.
"Keep the Faith" is a message that never stops being heard in the lives of others.
Cancer teaches us how to really live moment by moment.
To have loved much and to have been loved are truly life's greatest moments.
Monday, August 6, 2007 9:49 PM CDT
Dear Friends,
I want to invite each of you to come to the Benefit Sing this Saturday night (Aug. 11) for good ole' gospel singing at CHS Fine Arts Auditorium at 7 PM. The Fine Arts is located next to CHS football field in Cabot. There is no admission charge, however a love offering will be taken with the proceeds going to "Keep the Faith" Foundation for children and their families fighting cancer. Christian entertainment will be provided by The Hallelujah Harmony Quartet, The Apostles, The I Am Boys and soloist, Mike Franklin. Their website is on the KTF link at the bottom.
The new KTF DVD was shown to our youth last Wed. night at church. Dakota is featured on the DVD so it was my first time to view it with our youth, and in a public setting. I THOUGHT I was prepared emotionally, but I was soooo wrong. I sobbed and sobbed and the youth just loved and hugged on me with tears in their eyes. What a GIFT each of you are. We had a great group of teens to step up to the plate and offer their time to serve at this Saturday's Benefit Sing. The Keep the Faith Foundation is an awesome way to both see and instill compassion in the hearts of our youth. It not only helps them to count their own blessings of good health, but allows them to be deeply touched by those who are not as fortunate and offer HOPE. I thank you Mt. Carmel youth for helping us with this fundraiser. You're AWESOME!:) I'm thankful Riley is a part of your youth group "Big John"!
While I'm bragging on our youth, (our future leaders when were old and gray) Westland Church youth group from Katy, Texas will be speaking to our youth group at Mt. Carmel this Wednesday night. (Aug. 8/6:15 at The Rock). They will be speaking on "Leadership: Making a Difference" with the pressures in today's world. This was Dakota's youth group during our tenure in Texas. Henry's best friend, Jimmy Taylor, (formerly of Cabot) is their youth minister. He and his precious family will also be with us. They are better known to our boys' as "Uncle Jimmy & Aunt Donna"! We welcome our Longhorn family back to Razorback Country!
I will close with some inspiration that I have recently read. I hope it cheers your weary heart if your going through a trial, causes you praise God for all your countless blessings, or stirs some deep emotion within your soul.
Keep the Faith With Me,
Sharon
Give me my scallop shell of quiet, my staff of faith to walk upon, my scrip of joy, immortal diet, my bottle of salvation, my gown of glory, hope's true gage, And thus I'll take my pilgrimage. Sir Walter Raleigh
Lord, help me to realize that I am not the only one hurting...that we all have pain in our lives. May I listen...comfort...and give unconditonal love to all who pass my way. Carol Hablet Adams
Our strength often increases in proportion to the obstacles imposed upon it. Paul De Rapin
God walks with us...He scoops up in His arms or simply sits with us in silent strength until we cannot avoid the awesome recognition that yes, even now, He is here. Gloria Gaither
I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.
Jeremiah 31:25
The God of peace gives perfect peace to those whose hearts are stayed upon Him. Charles Spurgeon
Love means to love that which is unlovable, or it is no virture at all; forgiving means to pardon that which is unpardonable, or it is no virtue at all - and to hope means hoping when things are hopeless, or it is no virtue at all. G.K. Chesterton
Prayer is kind of like calling home every day.
Barbara Johnson
May I never miss a sunset or a rainbow because I was looking down.
There is a past which is gone forever, but there is a future whcih is still our own. F.W. Robertson
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
My life is but a weaving between my Lord and me, I cannot choose the colors He worketh steadily...The dark threads are needful in the Weaver's skillful hand as the threads of gold and silver in the pattern He has planned.
Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me." John 11 :41 Try giving thanks. "It is good to praise the Lord" Psalm 92:1
Monday, August 6, 2007 9:49 PM CDT
Dear Friends,
I want to invite each of you to come to the Benefit Sing this Saturday night (Aug. 11) for good ole' gospel singing at CHS Fine Arts Auditorium at 7 PM. The Fine Arts is located next to CHS football field in Cabot. There is no admission charge, however a love offering will be taken with the proceeds going to "Keep the Faith" Foundation for children and their families fighting cancer. Christian entertainment will be provided by The Hallelujah Harmony Quartet, The Apostles, The I Am Boys and soloist, Mike Franklin. Their website is on the KTF link at the bottom.
The new KTF DVD was shown to our youth last Wed. night at church. Dakota is featured on the DVD so it was my first time to view it with our youth, and in a public setting. I THOUGHT I was prepared emotionally, but I was soooo wrong. I sobbed and sobbed and the youth just loved and hugged on me with tears in their eyes. What a GIFT each of you are. We had a great group of teens to step up to the plate and offer their time to serve at this Saturday's Benefit Sing. The Keep the Faith Foundation is an awesome way to both see and instill compassion in the hearts of our youth. It not only helps them to count their own blessings of good health, but allows them to be deeply touched by those who are not as fortunate and offer HOPE. I thank you Mt. Carmel youth for helping us with this fundraiser. You're AWESOME!:) I'm thankful Riley is a part of your youth group "Big John"!
While I'm bragging on our youth, (our future leaders when were old and gray) Westland Church youth group from Katy, Texas will be speaking to our youth group at Mt. Carmel this Wednesday night. (Aug. 8/6:15 at The Rock). They will be speaking on "Leadership: Making a Difference" with the pressures in today's world. This was Dakota's youth group during our tenure in Texas. Henry's best friend, Jimmy Taylor, (formerly of Cabot) is their youth minister. He and his precious family will also be with us. They are better known to our boys' as "Uncle Jimmy & Aunt Donna"! We welcome our Longhorn family back to Razorback Country!
I will close with some inspiration that I have recently read. I hope it cheers your weary heart if your going through a trial, makes you praise God for all your countless blessings, or stir some deep emotion within your soul.
Keep the Faith With Me,
Sharon
Give me my scallop shell of quiet, my staff of faith to walk upon, my scrip of joy, immortal diet, my bottle of salvation, my gown of glory, hope's true gage, And thus I'll take my pilgrimage. Sir Walter Raleigh
Lord, help me to realize that I am not the only one hurting...that we all have pain in our lives. May I listen...comfort...and give unconditonal love to all who pass my way. Carol Hablet Adams
Our strength often increases in proportion to the obstacles imposed upon it. Paul De Rapin
God walks with us...He scoops up in His arms or simply sits with us in silent strength until we cannot avoid the awesome recognition that yes, even now, He is here. Gloria Gaither
I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.
Jeremiah 31:25
The God of peace gives perfect peace to those whose hearts are stayed upon Him. Charles Spurgeon
Love means to love that which is unlovable, or it is no virture at all; forgiving means to pardon that which is unpardonable, or it is no virtue at all - and to hope means hoping when things are hopeless, or it is no virtue at all. G.K. Chesterton
Prayer is kind of like calling home every day.
Barbara Johnson
May I never miss a sunset or a rainbow because I was looking down.
There is a past which is gone forever, but there is a future whcih is still our own. F.W. Robertson
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
My life is but a weaving between my Lord and me, I cannot choose the colors He worketh steadily...The dark threads are needful in the Weaver's skillful hand as the threads of gold and silver in the pattern He has planned.
Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me." John 11 :41 Try giving thanks. "It is good to praise the Lord" Psalm 92:1
Monday, August 6, 2007 9:49 PM CDT
Dear Friends,
I want to invite each of you to come out this Saturday night (Aug. 11) for good ole' gospel singing at CHS Fine Arts Auditorium at 7 PM. The Fine Arts is located next to CHS football field in Cabot. There is no admission charge, however a love offering will be taken with the proceeds going to "Keep the Faith" Foundation for children and their families fighting cancer. Christian entertainment will be provided by The Hallelujah Harmony Quartet, The Apostles, The I Am Boys and soloist, Mike Franklin. Their website is on the KTF link at the bottom.
The new KTF DVD was shown to our youth last Wed. night at church. Dakota is featured on the DVD so it was my first time to view it with our youth, and in a public setting. I THOUGHT I was prepared emotionally, but I was soooo wrong. I sobbed and sobbed and the youth just loved and hugged on me with tears in their eyes. What a GIFT each of you are. We had a great group of teens to step up to the plate and offer their time to serve at this Saturday's Benefit Sing. The Keep the Faith Foundation is an awesome way to both see and instill compassion in the hearts of our youth. It not only helps them to count their own blessings of good health, but allows them to be deeply touched by those who are not as fortunate and offer HOPE. I thank you Mt. Carmel youth for helping us with this fundraiser. You're AWESOME!:) I'm thankful Riley is a part of your youth group "Big John"!
While I'm bragging on our youth, (our future leaders when were old and gray) Westland Church youth group from Katy, Texas will be speaking to our youth group at Mt. Carmel this Wednesday night. (Aug. 8/6:15 at The Rock). They will be speaking on "Leadership: Making a Difference" with the pressures in today's world. This was Dakota's youth group during our tenure in Texas. Henry's best friend, Jimmy Taylor, (formerly of Cabot) is their youth minister. He and his precious family will also be with us. They are better known to our boys' as "Uncle Jimmy & Aunt Donna"! We welcome our Longhorn family back to Razorback Country!
I will close with some inspiration that I have recently read. I hope it cheers your weary heart if your going through a trial, makes you praise God for all your countless blessings, or stir some deep emotion within your soul.
Keep the Faith With Me,
Sharon
Give me my scallop shell of quiet, my staff of faith to walk upon, my scrip of joy, immortal diet, my bottle of salvation, my gown of glory, hope's true gage, And thus I'll take my pilgrimage. Sir Walter Raleigh
Lord, help me to realize that I am not the only one hurting...that we all have pain in our lives. May I listen...comfort...and give unconditonal love to all who pass my way. Carol Hablet Adams
Our strength often increases in proportion to the obstacles imposed upon it. Paul De Rapin
God walks with us...He scoops up in His arms or simply sits with us in silent strength until we cannot avoid the awesome recognition that yes, even now, He is here. Gloria Gaither
I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.
Jeremiah 31:25
The God of peace gives perfect peace to those whose hearts are stayed upon Him. Charles Spurgeon
Love means to love that which is unlovable, or it is no virture at all; forgiving means to pardon that which is unpardonable, or it is no virtue at all - and to hope means hoping when things are hopeless, or it is no virtue at all. G.K. Chesterton
Prayer is kind of like calling home every day.
Barbara Johnson
May I never miss a sunset or a rainbow because I was looking down.
There is a past which is gone forever, but there is a future whcih is still our own. F.W. Robertson
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18
My life is but a weaving between my Lord and me, I cannot choose the colors He worketh steadily...The dark threads are needful in the Weaver's skillful hand as the threads of gold and silver in the pattern He has planned.
Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me." John 11 :41 Try giving thanks. "It is good to praise the Lord" Psalm 92:1
Monday, July 30, 2007 12:25 AM CDT
"His way is the whirlwind and the storm." (Nahum 1:3)
Taken from my favorite devotional book, Streams in the Desert ....
I remember when I was a young person attending school in the vicinity of Mount Pleasant. One day I sat on the side of the mountian andd watched a storm as it moved throughout the valley. The skies were filled with darkness, and thunder began to shake the earth. It seemed as though the lush landsape were completely changed, and its beauty gone forever. But the storm passed quickly and soon moved out of the valley.
If I had sat in the same place the following day and said, "Where is that intense storm and all its terrible darkness? The grass would have said, "Part of it is in me." The beautiful daisy would have said, "Part of it is in me." And all the other flowers, fruits, and everything that grows in the ground would haved said, "Part of the storm has produced the radiance in me."
Have you ever asked the Lord to make you like Him? Have you ever desired the fruit of the Spirit (evidence of the Holy Spirit abiding in us: love, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, self-control, gentleness, and faithfulness) and prayed for these qualities? If so, then never fear the fierce storms that even now may be blowing through your life. Storms bring blessings, and rich fruit will be harvested later. Henry Ward Beecher
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Hallelujah Harmony Quartet
Sat. Aug. 11, 2007
Cabot Fine Arts
7 - 9:30 PM
*Proceeds going to "Keep the Faith" Foundation for children and their families fighting cancer.
Monday, July 23, 2007 12:24 AM CDT
FYI: 3rd Annual Hallelujah Harmony Quartet Southern Gospel Benefit Sing will be Sat. August 11, 2007. There is no admission charge for the singing, but a love offering will go to "Keep the Faith" Foundation for children and their families fighting childhood cancer.
Sat. August 11, 2007
Cabot High School Fine Arts Auditorium
Cabot, Ar
7:00 - 9:30 PM
For more info:
hhquartet.com
"Keep the Faith" Foundation link @ bottom of homepage
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Keep the Faith Devotional:
Grief
Part I
Our preacher at Mt. Carmel has been preaching on "Suffering Well" these last few weeks. I realize I have drawn strict boundaries on whom I've allowed into my grieving process. Most times help has to be sought before help can be given. I continue to grieve and seek help from the greatest couselor known to man, our Almighty God, who listens to my prayers, gives me counsel (strength) through His word, and sends special people along the way to hold my hand (husband, son, family, friends, church family, etc. and sometimes people I least expect!) Our preacher, Bro. Larry, has helped me realize I still have a mission for those around me who are grieving.
I was reminded today in my Griefshare devo's that Jesus himself wept. (John 11:35) Christian author, Bruce Marchiano, says "Jesus, fully man AND fully God, found himself in the midst of human tragedy - the death of a dear friend - and he did what we would do. He wept!" Although this is the shortest verse in the entire Bible, perhaps it's the most profound in revealing the GREAT COUNSELORS'character, He grieves therefore He cares!
Over the last few months, I realize I have grieved since Dakota was diagnosed. The grieving process is just that...a process...that you CANNOT put a time limit on. It is unpredictable, yet has no limitations. It cannot be ignored, but has to be embraced. It cannot be judged, until it is felt. It cannot be understood until it is experienced. It cannot be left behind, but it has to be taken with you. It can be all-consuming without the supernatural power that only God can give. It can exhaust you, but it can also purify you. It can make you different, but it can also make you better. It can help you to see heavenly things that earthly eyes could not see. It can make you empathize rather that just sympathize. It can make you grow stronger when it would be easier to grow weaker. It can make you love unconditionally, unselfishly, and willingly...And I could go on and on...
In the midst of it all, where is Jesus? Right beside us, weeping with us, and interceding on our behalf. How sweet it is to know that Jesus is the same today as He was then when He walked this earth in human form and experienced grief all for the sake of love. And all for the sake of you and me.
Keeping the Faith,
Sharon
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Brief Update: All things considered, I think we are doing well. Busyiness can be harmful to your health in many ways, but it can also be good if channeled the right way. We are staying very busy with a lot of changes going on in our lives.
Riley is off to church camp and the house is quiet....Too quiet! He begins 2-A-Days in football next week so camp will be good as far as getting him in a routine to get up early! He is now much taller than I. He is such a joy to his dad and I and we thank God for him every single day.
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My apologies for the DVD not being on here yet. Apparently this site might be too outdated to hold it, however, we will put it on the "Keep the Faith" Foundation website as we improve the sound quality.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007 2:56 PM CDT
Dear Friends,
I want to share our new website with you called Keep the Faith Foundation (KTF) for children with cancer. We have also created a DVD about the ministry of KTF that has live footage of Dakota. It will be posted on both Dakota's website and the KTF website as soon as we improve the sound quality, however; please go ahead and visit the site to learn more about KTF. The DVD will touch the core of your soul for those of you who loved our Dakota. If you knew Dakota you also know how very PROUD he would be to encourage others to "keep the faith" and help these children and their families who are victims of cancer.
I was told recently by a dear friend that it can be harder after the first anniversary of the death of your loved one for several reasons. She was right....It is tough, but God is there and has been faithful each waking hour without him. HOPE is a small word packed with such meaning. It is my survival kit.
I love you all very much. May God bless and keep you.
"Keep the Faith" Alive
Sharon
To view KTF website, go to http://ktf.faithcabot.org
or scroll down and just click on the link at the bottom of the homepage.
Sunday, April 29, 2007 9:19 PM CDT
JERUSALEM, MY DESTINY
I have fixed my eyes on your hills Jerusalem, my destiny! Though I cannot see the end for me, I cannot turn away. We have set our hearts for the way; this journey is our destiny. Let no one walk alone. The journey makes us one.
Other spirits, lesser Gods, have courted me with lies. Here among you I have found a truth which bids me rise.
See, I leave the past behind; a new land calls to me. Here among you now I find a glimpse of what might be.
In my thirst, you let me drink the waters of your life. Here among you I have the Saviour, Jesus Christ.
All the worlds I have not seen you open to my view. Here among you I have found a vision, bright and new.
To the tombs I went to mourn the hope I thought was gone. Here among you I awoke to unexpected dawn.
Song written by Rory Cooney and given to me by my dear friend, Mary Ann Ray. She heard this as the four of us journeyed as one to Jerusalem, Israel in February of 2005. As I can handle it, God is giving me some insight on our purpose there. Perhaps Dakota had more insight at the time than I. I just wanted my son to be healed....Missing my Dakota so much. I long to talk with him and be with him again. He now understands the whole purpose while I still search and wait.
I will close with something POWERFUL from God's word that seems to pick up where this song left off and what I believe is a glimpse of Dakota's journey into eternity....
THE NEW JERUSALEM: "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. He who was seated on the throne said, I am making everything new! Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life. He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son...............I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb (His son, Jesus Christ who was a Lamb without blemish and the atoning sacrifice for my sin) are its temple. The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of GOD gives it light, and the Lamb (His son, Jesus) is its lamp. The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life....(Then the words of Jesus himself,) "Behold I am coming soon! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book. I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things.... Revelation 21,22
Tuesday, April 17, 2007 9:55 AM CDT
Today, I grieve for the parents and siblings who lost a son/daughter, brother/sister to the massacre at Virginia Tech. How can we deny Christ in a world of terror, suffering, and pain when Jesus offers forgiveness, love, hope, peace, and eternal life? My mind is racing with too many topics to write about! I cannot discern His will....then God spoke to my heart through this awesome devotional taken from "Streams in the Desert", and said to "WAIT!"
Please pray for the families of the victims at VTech, Job, Jonathan, Caroline, Savanna, Anthony, Chase, Brandon, Adam, Ethan, Cindy, Caleb Sims family, our children, our country, our colleges/schools, our leaders, and our troops. (Email me and I will be happy to share the sites of these precious kiddos.)
"We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." 2 Chronicles 20:12
An Israelite named Uzzah lost his life because he "reached out and took hold of the ark of God." 2 Samuel 6:6 He placed his hands on it with the best of intentions - to steady it, "Because the oxen stumbled" 2 Samuel 6:6 - but nevertheless, he had overstepped his bounds by touching the Lord's work, and "therefore God struck him down." 2 Samuel 6:7 Living a life of FAITH often requires us to leave things alone.
If we have completely entrusted something to God, we must keep our hands off it. He can guard it better than we can, and He does not need our help. "Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes." Psalms 37:7
Things in our lives may seem to be going all wrong, but God knows our circumstances better than we do. And He will work at the perfect moment, if we will completely trust Him to work in His own way and in His own time. Often there is nothing as godly as inactivity on our part, or nothing as harmful as restless working (tolling), for God has promised to work His sovereign will. A.B. Simpson
Being perplexed, I say,
"Lord, make it right!
Night is as day to You
Darkness is as light.
I am afraid to touch
Things that involve so much;
My trembling hand may shake,
My skilless hand may break;
Yours can make no mistake."
Being in doubt I say,
"Lord, make it plain;
Which is the true, safe way?
Which would be gain?
I am not wise to know,
Nor sure of foot to go;
What is so clear to Thee,
Lord, make it clear to me!"
It is such a comfort to drop the entanglement and perplexities of life into God's hands and leave them there.
Dear God, forgive me for the many times I put my hand to the plow and went before you when YOU knew that waiting would have been best....Perhaps I missed a great blessing...."Be still and know that I am God."
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If you get an opportunity, read "The Seed" that my friend, Lis, just posted in the guestbook. A great parable of our lives when we are honest and seek to do what is right before God and others. Thanks Lis!
Keeping the Faith,
Sharon
Thursday, April 12, 2007 9:32 AM CDT
Keep the Faith Devotional
Part II JESUS CHRIST: Accepted or Denied
Jesus Christ Prophesied
Words from GOD spoken to the prophet Nathan to King David...."The Lord declares to you that the Lord himself will establish a house for you: When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one who will build a house for my NAME, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be his father, and he will be my son.....But my love will never be taken from him as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne wil be established forever." 2 Samuel 7:11-14, 15-16
The last words of David: "The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me: When one rules in the fear of GOD he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning., like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth. Is not my house right with God? Has he not made with me an everlasting covenant, arranged and secured in every part?" 2 Samuel 23:3-5
Major covenants of the Old Testament are fullfilled (come to pass) AND completed (finished on Calvary's cross)in God's great purpose, sending us a Savior, His son, JESUS CHRIST, whose reign lasts forever and ever. Through the tribe of Judah to the house of David, the road (lineage) to the great king, JESUS CHRIST, was revealed. "My Name" here is equivalent to God. __________________________________________________________
"For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and
the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this." Isaiah 9:6-7
The Righteous Branch: "The days are coming," declares the Lord, "when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD OUR Righteousness." Jeremiah 23:5-6
Born of a virgin in Bethelem, The Messiah would have the FINEST of qualities....He will do what is right and just. (In my research, I found that "Branch" is a Messianic title and the ancient Aramic phrase reads "Messiah." Daniel 7:27 says, "His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom" In John 14:26, the "counselor" is the Holy Spirit. (The Godhead being: the Father, Holy Spirit, and Son. When we become a Christian, the power of the Holy Spirit resides in us as believers. Because of the power of the Holy Spirit (Christ living in us), we can make decisions/choices about our everyday lives that pleases God. There is great power in the blood of JESUS CHRIST.
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The Coming of Zion's King: "Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey." Zechariah 9:9
Jesus triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The greatest example that ever lived of what an ideal, perfect king should be....gentle (not harsh), humble (not prideful) riding on a lowly animal, "donkey" (not a princely stallion). And one without sin. (2 Corinthians 5:21) "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God"
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The Genealogy of David, hence, the Genealogy of Jesus Christ: "So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. Then he went to her, and the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she game birth to a son. The women said to Naomi: "Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a kinsman-redeemer." (Jesus Christ) Ruth 4:13-15
Here one can see Ruth and Boaz's descendant David, who selflessly gave himself to fight Israel's battles all the way to the greatest descendant of all mankind.... The Messiah, JESUS CHRIST, who saves us from sin, known as the great "son of David" (Matthew 1:1) For the genealogy of JESUS CHRIST see Matthew 1:1-17. Isaiah 59:20 says, "The Redeemer will come to Zion", a great revelation of what was to come, and who came over 2000 years ago. Each of us are in need of a redeemer.
For Part I of JESUS CHRIST: Accepted or Denied, go back to Friday, April 6 in "read journal history." I pray that everyone will see the importance of studying God's complete, divine word in both the Old and New Testaments. We cannot fully understand God's message to us without careful reading, deep study, and devout prayer. God speaks to us through His word and that is the greatest way to know His will for our lives. As always, I would be overjoyed to send you a Holy Bible if you do not have one. Pray for me as I now prepare for Part III.
Keeping the Faith,
Sharon
Friday, April 6, 2007 8:28 PM CDT
Keep the Faith Devotional
JESUS CHRIST: Accepted or Denied
Part I
Isaiah 53 "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed."
This week, especially today, has been so heavy for me. I miss Dakota beyond description. He's my first thought in the morning, I carry thoughts of him throughout the day, he's my last thought at night, and sometimes it's as if I hear him in the wee hours of the morning. Death is so permanent in this lifetime and grief is so unpredictable as it can hit you at any moment in time. A mother never heals completely from losing her child. It's an incurable pain that we have to live with....the ache, the sick-feeling, the longing, the emptiness, the constant reminders when we see other kids their age, etc. But someday soon, the CURE will come. When JESUS returns to get his children. He will make it all perfect. Get use to it...Life is not meant to be perfect. Heaven is and that is why our spirits sometimes "groan"! This is not our home.
Today is called 'Good Friday' and the only good attribute I can see for it to deserve such a name is the fact that Jesus did something so good for us sinners. He took our place on that cross so we may have HOPE everlasting. But all mankind nailed him there. "For we are all sinners and have fallen short of the glory of God." However, for the Christian, it should be a day of mourning for what Jesus did for us. Sunday is the day of rejoicing when he arose from the grave and death was defeated. Does anyone not desire to see death defeated? All we have to do is look at Jesus. The heaviness of Jesus' spirit that last day was unimaginable knowing the suffering and blood-shed he was about to experience by 3 nails and a cross. But if your soul yearns as mine does today, that is the spirit of God abiding (residing, living) in us that groans in rememberance of what had transpired over 2,000 years ago....the cross, the nails, the agony of carrying our sins upon his body.
Jesus had been prophesied all through the Old Testament. Moreover, Jesus quotes Deuteronomy as authoratative in Matthew 4:4,7,10. (Jesus also bears testimony to the book in the New Testament of Matthew, Mark, & John). Isaiah 53 is so full of the prophecy of the coming Messiah and even gave the people of that era a glimpse of what to expect and what was to come. "He grew up before him like a tender shoot, (The Messiah would grow from the line of David and Jesse) and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him nothing in his appearance that we should desire him (no trappings of royalty by how he looked). He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced (the cross) for our transgressions (sins). He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed (forgiven). We all like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way, and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all." Yet, because he didn't come in royalty and splendor, or born in a palace of wealth as a king should, many didn't believe in him, but there were a few ...Anna (a well- respected Jewish woman who prayed, served, and lived in the temple), Nicodemus (Pharisee who visited Jesus at night and later prepared Jesus for burial), the Roman soldier (centurion)who said after his death on the cross, "Surely this man was the son of God", His disiples, etc. Isn't it just like God to have Jesus born in the humblest of circumstances and in poverty?... Born in a stable and laid in a manager at Bethlehem because there was no room in the Inn? That's how he wants us, his children, humble and content with what we have.
I choose to be bold for Christ and not silent about Jesus of Nazareth for He is the only way by which men can be saved. He desires that "none of us perish, but all have everlasting life." The Good News was created for sharing with all walks of life.....We've had the priveledge in our journey w/ cancer to develop relationships with people from all over the world...Some religious, some not, but fine people who had the same goals in mind....searching for the cure for their son or daughter. Or perhaps doctors, nurses, and staff members who had a common bond of helping the child survive. This was no mere coincidence, but God leading our every path. God does desire for something good to come out of cancer, our trials, and heartache, and even our long journeys when simply tells us to "GO!". My son wanted to be a missionary and was successful. I hope he realized in his heart that he fullfilled that calling before his death. But now he has passed the torch down to all of us who knew him. Through God's grace, guidance, and strength - I plan to keep the torch burning and pass it down. Unfortunately, cancer brought us together w/ numerous cultures and it is my humble prayer that it will also LINK us together through the blood of Jesus Christ throughout all eternity as we hunger, thrist, and accept Him for who He was and is. He came to us in human form as God's only begotten son, and left believers with His Holy Spirit to help guide us to what is right, peaceful, pure, and holy. He is the "Godhead three in one, the Father, Spirit, Son, the lion and the lamb" (our sacrifice without blemish). The analogy can be so simple if we think of our own existence. We're spiritual creatures, but we're also physical. Our physical "tent" just temporarily houses our soul that lives forever in heaven or torment. Believers will be given a new "incorruptible" body that will never know pain, sickness, tears or death. How could we not want that? That is why God has allowed us free choice in accepting Jesus for who He was and is. He doesn't force us, but He won't wait forever. He's a loving, merciful, patient God, but also a just God. The choice is ours.
I will close with the words of Jesus' Crucifixion as stated from Matthew 27. From the sixth hour to the ninth hour darkness came over all the land. About the ninth hour JESUS cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi Eloi,lama sabachthani? -which means, "MY God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (A mixture of Aramic and Hebrew).....And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus' resurrection (3 DAYS LATER!) They went to to the holy city and appeared to many people."
He left us with his last greatest words in what is known as the Great Commission that he desires us to accept and obey! Then Jesus came to them (disciples) and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. And teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20
As the Lord so graciously leads me, I will continue my series on Jesus Christ: Accepted or Denied. I plan to write about the old law being nailed to the cross, continue speaking of Jesus prophesied throughout the Old Testament, and why the world (Satan) wants us to deny Christ.
My offer always stands. If you do not have the Bible in its entirity, both Old and New Testaments, please email me personally and I would be so overjoyed to send one to you to study. If you need the Bible in a different language, I am willing to help you there too. My email is always at the bottom of the homepage.
Keeping the Faith,
Sharon
Sunday, March 18, 2007 7:58 PM CDT
Taken from Streams in the Desert.........
"Stay there until I tell you." Matthew 2:13
I'll stay where You've put me; I will, dear Lord,
Though I wanted so badly to go;
I was eager to march with the "rank and file,"
Yes, I wanted to lead them, You know.
I planned to keep step to the music loud,
To cheer when the banner unfurled,
To stand in the midst of the fight straight and proud,
But I'll stay where You've put me.
I'll stay where You've put me, I'll work, dear Lord,
Though the field be narrow and small,
And the ground be neglected, and stones lie thick,
And there seems to be no life at all.
The field is Your own, only give me the seed,
I'll sow it with never a fear;
I'll till the dry soil while I wait for the rain,
And rejoice when the green blades appear;
I'll work where You've put me.
I'll stay where You've put me, I will, dear Lord;
I'll bear the days burden and heat,
Always trusting You fully; when sunset has come
I'll lay stalks of grain at your feet.
And then, when my earth work is ended and done,
In the light of eternity's glow,
Life's record all closed, I surely will find
It was better to stay than to go;
I'll stay where You put me.
I sobbed so deeply when I came across this. In the stillness of the morning, it was as though I heard Dakota's voice tenderly reading it aloud while in total submission to The Father. Then I realized this is exactly what I had witnessed my son live out. I miss him so deeply.
May it touch the very core of your soul in the way God intends and He receive the glory.
Keeping the Faith,
Sharon
Saturday, March 17, 2007 11:53 AM CDT
I have a lot on my heart as a Christian, wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, acquaintance, and other. I'm overwhelmed at the content of what I feel led to say. First, I have asked of God that it be His message and not my own. Many things may follow this writing as the Holy Spirit so leads me, yet some of it may need to remain within to be prayed about. I pray I will recognize the difference. Pleasing Him and following His leadership is my heart's desire. Today is just a glimpse of what is going through my heart.
I never quite understood 2 Corinthians 5:2 until recently. "Meanwhile we GROAN, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling..... It seems as though my writings always fall back on what the Apostle Paul penned thousands of years ago. Oh, how I understand why Dakota read of him over and over and how he emphatically stated Paul was his favorite character because he could relate to him (First being Jesus Christ). To get the gist of what Paul is saying, why not read all of 2 Corinthians 5.
My soul groans as never before. It longs for something that this life cannot fullfill. Looking back, I'm certain it has always been there. Perhaps now that I have lost a child prematurely, I see the "groaning" for what it really is....God's plan for us to desire something better; a heavenly dwelling. This world cannot provide it, money cannot buy it, earthly love cannot fill it, fame cannot satisfy it, and health cannot heal the groanings existence. Does your soul also groan? Only Jesus Christ can cause the "groaning" to stop and that is when we reach our eternal destination.
Each of us are surrounded by the enemy. Our world is in turmoil with fighting on every side. We cannot escape disease, nor death. At times, we want to blame someone. Many times we blame God, our leaders, yet we don't blame the source of all evil...Satan himself. "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."
1 Peter 5:8 He wants to take us down with him! Satan is symbolic of a wild beast, "a lion". Notice at the zoo how the lion paces back and forth, his hunger is never completely satisfied. But God equips (empowers us) with the weaponry of prayer and strength...."RESIST (turn away from evil and wrongdoing) the devil and Satan will FLEE." James 4:7 Yes, we have power (God's power) to have dominion over the evil one. Are we plugged into the Light Source or are we depending on our own human nature? The good news is that Satan DOES leave us, but the bad news is the duration of "only a season". The parallel here is when Jesus himself was tempted by Satan in the wilderness (yet Jesus remained without sin). Satan left, but only for a season. That is why we have to be alert at all times, not letting our guard down.
This is the start of many subjects that are weighing on my heart and mind. I've recently read in between the lines of several people, whom I love dearly, whose faith has been challenged and prayer life has been questioned due partially to the "whys" of Dakota's death when we prayed for long life. Perhaps this is an introduction to my next devotional. While I too have more questions than answers, I'm deeply searching for God to allow me to see things through spiritual eyes. As a mother, I'm also seeing things through Dakota's eyes and realize his precious prayers were much different than my very own.
With that said, I'm going to be devoting more of my time towards writing my book. I will do well to update the website or write a devotional on a monthly basis, or as God so leads me.
Last, I have been pondering why God sent us to Jerusalem other than the obvious of trying to save Dakota's life.
Enjoy the springtime..... A perfect time of renewal, seeing the beauty of God's handiwork, and living out His plan.
Keeping the Faith,
Sharon
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