Thursday, May 31, 2007

Passages, Graduation and New Life

We all go through experiences in life that mold and shape us. These things leave their mark on us – good and bad. Life consistently changes its rhythms. This week alone demonstrates various aspects of life.

A dear friend suffered the lost of her dad. My prayers are with her and her family during this difficult time. When someone you care about loses a loved one you can’t help but remember a time when you experienced the same thing. I lost my dad to cancer eighteen years ago. I watched as my mom and sister struggled to let him go. I think he hung on longer just to give them a little extra time. My dad became a Christian and I knew I would see him again someday. He had been so sick and lost his leg to an infection. It was a difficult time. Passages are a part of life, but it doesn’t make it any easier.

On Saturday five different teens from our church are graduating high school. I remember my children’s graduation as well as my own. It was a time of transition from childhood to young adulthood. You have your whole life ahead of you. It’s a time for many to leave home and begin life on their own for the first time. It’s scary for some and exciting for others. It a special time for parents as they let go and watch their child spread their wings.

In our church a young couple is awaiting the birth of their fourth child. She’ll probably have her baby by Saturday. The birth of child is a special event in every young couple’s life. After waiting for this child for nine months you finally get to look upon his face, hold his hand with your finger, hold him in your arms, count toes and dream of what he will become. No matter how much you prepare for his arrival you just can’t prepare for how such a small person can steal your heart and take your breath away.

Life comes full circle this week - a birth of a child, a graduation into adulthood and a passing of a father. But life is big and these are just moments in time on our journey.

Lord I pray you comfort those who mourn. Bring peace to their hearts and minds. Lord guide the young adults who are embarking on their new adventures. Bless new life and let it arrive smoothly.

© Nadine Z. 2007

17 comments:

Art said...

Life can sometimes seem like nothing more than a passage of milestones. As I've gotten older though, I've realized that milestones would be meaningless if we weren't on a journey of some significance!

Susan said...

Turning points and time waits for no man. May we learn to live in such a way that each day holds wonder and anticipation.

Anonymous said...

It does seem like life is all about the milestones ... interesting. The people that are changing are what make it worth it!

Danni said...

Very beautifully put, Nadine. You Bless me...
Danni

Sandy said...

Beautifully written, Nadine.
Life is so full.
Happy Weekend -- Sandy
For Reluctant Entertainers
PS: Come on over and see the new book!

Jill said...

Thanks for the reminder that the circle of life is wondderful and pure.

yours truly B said...

Thank you for shareing this is beautiful.

Shionge said...

Prayers to your dear friend too Nadine.

Louise said...

Great words from a great person!!
May you be blessed today and always in ALL WAYS!!
have a great weekend!!

Cheri said...

New Life...we are anxiously awaiting the arrival of a new niece or nephew who is now a week overdue.

Tammy said...

So beautiful, Nadine...

And I lost my dad about the same time- 19 years ago.

Sometimes I wish time would slow down just a bit here and there...

Blessings!

Mary said...

Life is a journey. When you put it in words... we're born, we live and we die. Seems pretty cut and dried. But in-between birth and death is where we leave our mark,our legacy, our significance on this earth. So my heart's cry is "Lord, let me make a difference". I want to be significant in this life that I am able to help others live their life in victory and challenge them in their faith walk. Thanks for your thoughts on this...very good. And thanks for stopping by my place. Blessings on your weekend.

D said...

I like the significant moments in life but I love the time in between! I think the milestones are made more meaningful when the time in between is spent well.

...And yes! I love aprons! ...Have lots of them! :-)

Amanda said...

Thank you for a little seed of wisdom in my life :-)

palmtreefanatic said...

Amen!Well said Nadine! Have a great night!

Dayngr said...

Excellent post

Deb said...

Wow what an emotional few days.
Beautifully written.