Joy was such a wonderful person, I truly wish all the world could have known her. She had something special about her that I don't see in many people. She was special. Her love for the Lord showed through her love for everything else. She was a daughter, a sister, a wife, a friend, a nurse, a mother, a grandmother, and a spiritual teacher. All those duties, were performed with the Lord by her side.
She battled the cancer for 3 long years and was a trooper every single step of the way. And even though is hard for those of us left here on earth, knowing that she is pain-free and with her Lord and Savior makes all the difference.
Below is a letter that I found that Andy started to write. He was planning to read this at the funeral. His feelings took over and he wasn't able to read it, but I feel that it is totally worth reading...
Mom, Joy, is there anyone more fitting to carry that name? You have impacted so many lives and spread so much love and joy. While preparing this, I did some searches for joy, and found a wonderful quote from Mother Theresa that sums it all up.
Joy is prayer - Joy is strength - Joy is love - Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls.
Mom, you are that net. No one will ever know how many people you consoled, counseled, and led to a better relationship with the Lord, but the numbers don’t matter.
Your devotion to us, your family, and God, has been an example for all. As I reflect back on everything you’ve done, there is incredible consistency. That consistency is your dedication to God, never ending selflessness, and abundant compassion. You never had to tell us “Do as I say, not as I do”. You taught by example, not by words. When asked to serve, you willingly gave. You were never too busy or too tired. On the contrary, you embraced every task as a blessing and opportunity to serve the Lord.
We miss you very much!
6 comments:
my heart just swells when I look at her and remember- sweet, wonderful memories of a fabulous Godly woman
Lisa
Loved this post then, love this post now! Joy was so amazing, and it was my privilege to know her. I love that picture of her "crafting" with Maggie on the counter - priceless!
Just clicked the picture for a better look & realized they are snapping green beans. Even better!
between this aaron shust song and missing my own mom this post about has me doing the ugly cry. what beautiful words written here. oh to have so much of this said by my own boys someday!
you know traci, i am seeing more and more how cancer may "rob us" of time but the character, true inner beliefs and hope explode in the lives of those who suffer. i am continually in awe of those who carry this burden! give your hubby a hug for me today!!
Just a little prayer for your family today that you may always have "JOY" in your lives.
I have experienced this kind of loss both personally and watching others and neither one is easy. Grief is a part of life and yet, so is (Joy)in your case. I know that when I asked myself the questions or watched Randy's kids search for answers it was always the same, I will see you again, we will be together again, and my peace I leave you. I know that this is where comfort is found. What about today? The hardest part sometimes is living the day to day knowing that this is missing until that day. Just like Jesus on the walk to emmaus. His disciples needed encouragement and believing that what they had experienced would not be lost. The best way I know to continue is to continue on with what this person taught and always know that (Joy) lives on within you. Jesus lives on within us all. Praise God. I can't help but think how proud Joy was of her family and the life she had found in Jesus. :) Tammy
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