One Year Later
So, it’s been a year.
One year.
One year since my family’s life was irrevocably altered.
One year since Kathy and I had our last conversation.
One year since my children hugged and kissed their mother.
One year ago, Kathy lived her last day, and she lived it well.
One year ago . . . Kathy won.
I believe that you know. Kathy WON . She won the greatest victory that a human being can win.
She has seen and heard things that we cannot even fathom in our limited human brains.
I realize this will sound cliché, but she really is in a better place.
A year ago today, I told Kathy that it was ok to go, and that her family would be taken care of after she was gone. A year later, I can confirm that we are blessed. We have our moments, and we all miss her, but we are ok. We have grown closer, we have each other, and we are moving forward.
We have also had a lot of help. We are thankful. At the risk of missing someone, I don’t want to name names, but you all know who you are. My family would not be what we are without you.
Throughout Kathy’s journey, we believed there was a plan in place. We saw evidence of that plan all along the way. Evidence still presents itself on an almost daily basis. As hard as this journey has been for all of us at times, it has also been incredibly beautiful. We are a simple family, who lead a simple life, yet we are being utilized in an extraordinary way. This blog, which started as a way to keep family and friends updated, has been viewed over 120,000 times. I’ve been told our story has changed lives, marriages and families. I have been told it has strengthened the faith of others. In some cases, it has even brought some to a faith that they never knew existed. In short, it has been an incredible journey.
And you know what? As hard as it may be for some to understand, I wouldn’t change it.
If one life has been changed, if one person has grown closer to God because of our journey, it has all been worth it.
I understand what I just said . . .and I mean it.
You know what else? I know in my heart that Kathy would agree.
Kathy’s shine was bright, and it will continue on.
In one month, I will board a plane to New York. I have been invited to share our story in front of hundreds.
One year later, Kathy’s shine is as bright as ever.
Thanks for reading.
Jennifer said,
November 15, 2011 at 9:15 pm
Happy Birthday by the way. And yes, Kathy’s life blessed many and for that we are grateful. So happy to hear that you are carrying on for our Lord and that would make Kathy very happy. Carry On! You have many prayers behind and in front of you.
Sheila H said,
November 15, 2011 at 9:21 pm
Thank you for sharing. Have you ever heard of Guideposts magazine? I think you’s and Kathy’s story would make an inspirational story for their magazine.
Trina Stephens said,
November 15, 2011 at 11:18 pm
I was thinking about your family earlier. I knew it was the first anniversary of Kathy’s victory. I wondered if you were still doing as well and continuing to touch lives with your story. Thank you for sharing your post tonight. Now I know you are all doing well and God is using you in a mighty way. I continue to pray for you guys. Even though you know Kathy IS in a better place, there are still times of sadness. In our humaness we miss those who have gone before us – even when we know they are rejoicing and sharing in a better place than we can even begin to imagine. Prayers are going up for your New York trip.
Amy Hagedorn said,
November 16, 2011 at 8:01 am
Amazing! PTL! Thanks for sharing!
marilyn said,
November 16, 2011 at 10:51 am
Mike,
Bless you and your children… God has been glorified by what you have shared with others. You are special!
Marilyn
Debra Gleason said,
December 31, 2011 at 6:24 pm
Hi Mike. Just wanted to wish you a very safe New Year. Hope things are going great!!!