One month since he left

(Original appeared June 24, 2016)

Today is another bitter-sweet day for us. It marks one month since Jacob was called home. We continue to  battle feelings of sadness and longing against joy and relief.

But it also is a new day given to us to celebrate God’s many blessings, and to get busy making a difference. Over the last month, we’ve experienced more positive events – what my brother aptly referred to as “Sprinkles of Grace”. These events are not earth-shattering, and admittedly sometimes they are barely noticeable. Yet they come at the right time, and provide just a bit of comfort, relief, or easiness. For instance, we received word that memorials for Jacob, in the form of gifts to the school tuition assistance fund, continue to pour in. We are so grateful that the impact of this little and short life is still felt among so many.

As a side note, our family has been lifted and enriched by the knowledge that so many have followed us on Caring Bridge. As I type this, our journal has had 5,589 visits. That number is staggering. I recall the first week of Jacob’s life writing an entry after 317 visits (and I thought THAT was a lot!). Many of you have shared this journal with your friends and family, and we have received so many wonderful and encouraging stories about how this journal has touched lives outside of our regular circles. Some of you have even opened up and shared with us your own story. What an inspiring thing for us to know we’re not alone, and that God’s plan for us is shared by so many others. For that, we thank you.

That said, Deb and I must get back to engaging in the tasks and work that kept us busy before April 9, 2016, and that we’ve been able to hold off until now. That means our journal entries will become fewer and less frequent. But please know that we cherish each of you, what you’ve done for us, and hope that you and your families continue to embrace God’s Grace and blessings – no matter what form they may take.