Thanks Be To God
(last Rose of the season in our garden)
by: Esther

While the early morning clouds still overshadow the rising sun and the soft sprinkling of snow, Joe slowly came close to me and with a loving hug sadly said, "Nellie is now in paradise and she deserves it!"

Yes, "God giveth & God taketh...."

Five 5 AM a day after Thanksgiving...what a beautiful day to rest in peace, when most people of this world still remembering to give thanks and expressing their gratitude to God. Nellie is now resting in peace.

I have many fond memories of Nellie, a kind, loving, always smiling dear neighbor since we moved close to their home. She fought the cancer bravely & valiantly for 13 years--like my husband, Ben. Yes, it makes me feel so sad but at the same time, thankful she is now resting. She showed everyone a courageous battle as long as she could to be with her family, especially her youngest daughter who spent more time getting closer to God--reading inspiring Christian books, listening to Christian music and allowing their church Pastor to visit as frequently as he could.

What a joy and experience for me to treasure--was given the privilege to visit any time I am able.

A few months ago, she made the decision to stop all treatments when told the cancer had spread to her brain. But talking about the biblical & historical stories, she sounded bright & alert. She mentioned about the Pyramids and wished she could visit. I gladly related my own awesome experience in Egypt--we had a good laugh about my scary camel-back ride.

Last March, a friend from Hinsdale visited Egypt & sent souvenirs including a small brass flower vase. Oh, what a joy to share...so she could have a piece of Egypt!

Shared a pumpkin pie. The following day, Nel excitedly mentioned how she enjoyed the pie, although she had not eaten for a while.

For the past weeks, a red rose I planted early spring gave beautiful blooming flowers. One rose bud a week, the rose giveth--just for Nellie!

A day before Thanksgiving, the last rose bud bloomed and found its way to the little brass Egyptian vase.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I thank God & His blessings especially friends like Joe & Nellie, Chris & Kim. I tell myself to always remember to say "Thank you & I Love You!"

Ben & I will always remember her "Moulded Hands" with Joe.

Yes, someday we will see our loved ones again, in that earth made new.

"Jesus, Rose of Sharon, bloom within my heart;

Beauties of Thy truth and holiness impart,

That where'er I go my life may shed abroad,

Fragrance of the knowledge of the love of God.

Jesus, Rose of Sharon, sweeter far to see

Than the fairest flow'rs of earth could make,

Fill my life completely adding more each day

Of Thy grace divine and purity, I pray.

Jesus, Rose of Sharon, balm for every ill

May Thy tender mercy's healing power distil

For afflicted souls of weary burdened men,

giving needy mortals health & hope again."

Words by: Ida A Guirey

(A beautiful song I enjoy listening to)