You came to us at a time in our life
When we needed a guiding hand.
Although it wasn't easy,
You always seemed to understand.
"For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21)
You were an inspiration to us, and we, your children and your step-children, thank God for you.
Helen-mom, as you got older, age 83, your body had worn down. It was difficult for those of us who loved you to see your vision fade, your hearing diminish, your bones become crippled. You could not function as you once did. And we all knew how much that bothered you. You had always been a servant, and now you had to let other people serve you. You never complained, but it was easy to see that your physical disabilities were disheartening to you. We knew you often breathed a silent prayer to God that He would take you home, home to your beloved first husband, Wilfred, who died serving his country in the second world war; home to your two baby daughters who never lived to know their wonderful mother; home to your oldest son, Wilfred, who drowned at the age of twenty; home to your second much-loved husband, Allyn, my dad, who died in 1989, at the age of 89.
Although your body had lost its USE, it had not, nor ever did, lose its VALUE. It was valuable, not because of its function, but because of its maker-- God Almighty. You were a child of God, and therefore, most precious. Your mind remained alert; your spirit, sound. Your prayer life was active, and you had the remarkable ability to "never give up." You endured countless hospitalizations, moving from home to home, from town to town, to an apartment, to living with relatives, and lastly to an extended-care hospital; but you didn’t complain. You didn't look back. You didn't predict the future. You took each day for what it was: an opportunity to serve the Lord by praying for others and doing what you were able to do for them. You gave generously from your meager means to missions and to those in need.
Helen-mom, as you got older,
And your body, wearing down,
you knew that soon, so very soon,
you'd surely wear a crown.
You will surely be missed by many: your siblings, your children, your step-children and their spouses, your grandchildren and your great grandchildren. But we would not want you to stay here on this earth, suffering. We know that a crown was reserved for you. We know that now you are free from pain. We are happy for you, Helen-mom.
A Remarkable Lady
Her name is Splane, Helen Margaret.
I hope that she had no regrets
…..That she married our dad—
…..No life of ease had she had.
Her sweet nature we shall never forget.
It was one day, late June fifty-two
That she started a life that was new
…..She entered our life
…..As our dad's second wife.
And that was a hard thing to do.
With great fear she walked in the door,
To a house where she'd not been before.
…..We were glad you had come—
…..Not to be our new mom,
But to be Dad's companion, and more.
Her assignment? 'Twas a difficult task.
For God's Grace, was all she did ask.
…..But He added joy.
…..He gave her a boy.
As a MOTHER her die was now cast.
Then to award her even yet more,
For performing her most difficult chore,
…..He gave her more joy—
…..She had three more boys.
And many more blessings in store.
I’ll not prolong this allegory.
For more details, we must wait until GLORY.
…..But we all want to say:
….."Blessed Heavenly Days!"
And that is a command MANDATORY
A Last Tribute to you, Helen-mom.
So much has been said about mothers,
and all that they mean in our life.
To children, they're there for protection,
to a husband, companion and wife.
But what's ever said about stepmothers?
Do they not deserve our praise, too?
They've come into our lives and our families,
to do what all mothers need do.
They wash dirty clothes, and they iron.
They cook; they bake, and they mend.
They're always there for our father,
and for us children too, in the end.
Our Stepmother, so longing to comfort,
was determined that she'd not interfere.
But she was always right there in the background,
waiting lovingly to wipe away tears.
****
Well, now you’re not here, our dear Stepmother,
but let me whisper just what's on my heart.
I am happy that you joined our family,
and of our life, I am gad you were a part.
I know we couldn't have managed
if you hadn't been there all those years,
silently loving us, praying,
and shedding an ocean of tears.
We’ll miss you, our dear, sweet Stepmother.
But you’ve waited for years, patiently
to join your loved ones in Glory,
who have welcomed you so happily.
So long, Mom! We’ll see you in heaven.
We pray for those yet not in the fold.
We know that your prayers will be answered,
And in Heaven, ALL your children you’ll hold.
November 12, 1922 – March 28, 2006
With love,
All your family.
© Helen Dowd
About Me:
I am 70 years old. I live in San Antonio, Texas with my wife of 39 years. We have two daughters and one granddaughter. I have been writing since the 60’s. I write both poetry and short stories. I retired after a 34 year career with computers in 2003, and have been writing for several online Christian newsletters. It is my desire to reach as many persons for Christ as I can through my writings. I also have a website where some of my writings may be viewed. Writings For Christ
|
|