Birth and Death

Yesterday was Annika's birthday, and it gave me some time to reminisce about the day she was born.  We had fun, taking cupcakes to her class at school and opening presents after a movie at home.

Then today, we got some news that made me think about death.  Darion's Grandpa called and broke the news that her mom died last night.  I had pictured this scenario a dozen times over in my mind, but when it actually happened I was in a panic.  How do you tell a child her mom just died?

Cameron and I had 20 minutes to compose ourselves before we told Darion.  When we did, she suprisingly had her emotions under control.  She cried for a while, and then shared with us an experience she had a few weeks ago.  She was in bed and had a strong feeling that she should kneel down and pray.  She didn't even know what to pray about, but she found herself asking Heavenly Father that if her mom died that she would be strong.  She had a feeling that her mom was going to die soon. 

That experience helped me feel more peace, and Darion has seemed to be at peace this whole day.  We went to lunch as a family.  Then Cameron took her shopping and driving (she has to get that license, you know).  She's at the park with her sisters right now.

I know that she'll have moments in the near future when she'll have to deal with her emotions more, but that prayer will keep those emotions in check.  I'm impressed that she has such a good relationship with her Heavenly Father and enough faith to believe that she'll be okay. 

It helps me recommit to myself to live my life to the fullest, keep my kids close to me throughout their lives, and remember my goal to be with my family forever.