Wintertime and Answered Prayers

Last year we became part of a club, but not by our own choice. Loosing a child is what we have in common with other members. News of Amanda’s death traveled far and wide and we received numerous cards from other parents who lost a child. Recently an older man was in our home doing a property appraisal. Seeing the pictures of Amanda on the wall, he asked, “Did you loose a daughter?” A look of sadness came over his face and he said, “I lost a daughter 20 years ago. She was 24 years old.” A few weeks later he kindly sent me this note. I have been thinking of your daughter and I have an inkling of what your pain is. I am so sorry. Time does not heal all wounds but I believe that our memories are what keep us going and having other children is a blessing. Your kids are so nice. You are fortunate to have them.

We’re healing and we’re experiencing the joys of life but sorrow is still our constant companion. I wonder if life will ever be the same again. Even after the baby is born, we still won’t know how to answer the question of how many children we have.

Winter Scenes on the Farm