… e. g. g.

I’ve been debating whether or not to post about what has been happening around me these last couple of days. I wondered whether it was too personal to Melanie and Greg for me to share in this forum…but then I realized that what happened is personal to me too…and that this is where I choose to share my thoughts and feelings. The loss of their baby Elizabeth Grace was devastating to me. My heart broke for their family as I watched their baby girl being born. And then it was torn into shreds as their faith and hopefulness turned into loss and grief. It is in those moments that even the strongest of hearts and souls are wounded. Melanie has always been the bravest, strongest woman I’ve known. She has comforted me so many times over the last twenty-something years and to suddenly have the tables turned, to see her cry was absolutely, heart-wrenchingly sad. In those moments, what could one say to comfort the heartbroken?

I had the honor of holding Elizabeth that night. She was swathed in a white, crocheted blanket, and she was so peaceful and precious. I remember thinking I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry you won’t be able to know your parents and how amazingly wonderful they are. What good friends they are. And how their faith and your little brother will help them get through this. I’m sorry you won’t grow up with your wonderful, fun family that had hoped to welcome you.

I sat in the church for the funeral thinking about the last time I had been there. I’d been crying uncontrollably that time too. It was the day of Melanie’s and Greg’s wedding. Those had been tears of joy, though and my heart was full of happiness for the two of them.

I know that they will be sad for a long time. That we will all be sad for a long time. I know that they are good, good people, though…and that they will be happy again…and strong again…and that their tears will cease to flow, and their hearts will love Elizabeth always…and that we will all remember her with love.

g