9 Years ago, my family lost the Patriarch of the family.  My Grandfather; and one of my best friends.  Within a year of that, we lost my Aunt prematurely after having brain surgery to remove a tumor.  A little over a year from that we lost my oldest Brother to a drowning accident. Finally, 3 years later the Matriarch of our family went home.

In all of these events, and with them all being one after the other, we attempted to remain strong and keep our faith as strong as possible.  The understanding that we always had been given is that God has a plan for it all.  That is what we were instilled with growing up.

When my grandfather passed, it was hard to see him go, but I accepted the fact that it was his time and his life was a good one...besides, he provided me with the greatest gift with his passing.  His memory on my day.  You see, he passed on my birthday so I will forever have his memory and our memories with me always in a special way.

When my Aunt passed, it was shoking to us all.  There was no time to prepare for it as with my grandfather, we saw her one day, and the next she was gone. 

When my brother passed, it was completely unexpected.  With this passing, I didn't cry for more than a year.  I couldn't understand it.  I knew that I loved my brother, why didn't I cry?

When my grandmother passed, I was at her side.  I held her hand.  As I write this post, I reflect on that day with a wonderful smile and joyful tears.  I was happy for her and am happy for her today.

With my brother, the question still remained, why had I not shed a tear?  It wasn't until more than a year after his passing did I cry; and cried uncontrollably.  When I spoke with a friend he explained to me that I had finally Accepted what God had allowed!

That was so profound to me and changed my life.  Today I live my life with more acceptance of the things that I cannot change.  I spend more time appreciating the moments that are life changing and less time complaining about them. 

I keep one thing with me.  It was a question that God asked Job - "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?  Tell me since you know so much."

When I think of this, it reminds me that even in the times of difficulty, God is always in control!  The more acceptance we have, the greater our faith can become. 

Thanks for allowing me to share!