Today I am pausing to remember my step dad of 30 years, Christian Andersen, who went to be with the Lord seven years ago today.
Actually, he’s in my thoughts every day. I see his winsome smile and hear his voice ringing with tales of his life and miscellaneous whimsical stories - some true, some just for fun.
He taught me so much over the years about life and loving. He showed a tremendous about of love to me and my family--as if we were his own. But the best part is the way he showed love to my Mom. He was more of Father to me than my own Dad. And all 3 of my children grew up calling him, Grandpa. There was a lot of love that flowed between them, a whole lot of love.
Today, I’m thankful I know that he’s no longer suffering and in the presence of the Lord. Even though we all miss him terribly, I can rejoice knowing that one day we will all be reunited.
My Mom and I were with him during those last days and hours before he went home.
To watch his breathing change from painless shallow gasps to his final exhale was a sacred moment. His furrowed brow relaxed and a look of gentleness and peace fell upon his face as he was ushered into the presence of His Lord and Savior.
The last words he spoke just hours before he left or heaven were, “I’m a blessed man." I’ll always treasure those words because so many of his words for 2 weeks had been controlled by dementia.
I assured him I would be there with him, comforting and encouraging him on until he reached his last breath, then I couldn’t go any farther. He would be in much better hands than mine at that point, the hands of God’s messengers sent to deliver him to his Savior. Transferred from the kingdom of darkness into His marvelous light. He “squeezed” my hand and smiled.
Just 7 hours later, I could see from the expression on his face, he saw the light of his new Home and was anxious to breathe that celestial air, realizing he’s finally Home. My job was done.
It’s how a life is lived between the first breath and the last that leaves an indelible imprint on those that are left behind. I can truly say I’m a blessed woman whose life has the imprint of many who have pressed their hearts and lives into mine.
From life’s first breath to it’s very last, life is sacred.
Actually, he’s in my thoughts every day. I see his winsome smile and hear his voice ringing with tales of his life and miscellaneous whimsical stories - some true, some just for fun.
He taught me so much over the years about life and loving. He showed a tremendous about of love to me and my family--as if we were his own. But the best part is the way he showed love to my Mom. He was more of Father to me than my own Dad. And all 3 of my children grew up calling him, Grandpa. There was a lot of love that flowed between them, a whole lot of love.
Today, I’m thankful I know that he’s no longer suffering and in the presence of the Lord. Even though we all miss him terribly, I can rejoice knowing that one day we will all be reunited.
My Mom and I were with him during those last days and hours before he went home.
To watch his breathing change from painless shallow gasps to his final exhale was a sacred moment. His furrowed brow relaxed and a look of gentleness and peace fell upon his face as he was ushered into the presence of His Lord and Savior.
The last words he spoke just hours before he left or heaven were, “I’m a blessed man." I’ll always treasure those words because so many of his words for 2 weeks had been controlled by dementia.
I assured him I would be there with him, comforting and encouraging him on until he reached his last breath, then I couldn’t go any farther. He would be in much better hands than mine at that point, the hands of God’s messengers sent to deliver him to his Savior. Transferred from the kingdom of darkness into His marvelous light. He “squeezed” my hand and smiled.
Just 7 hours later, I could see from the expression on his face, he saw the light of his new Home and was anxious to breathe that celestial air, realizing he’s finally Home. My job was done.
It’s how a life is lived between the first breath and the last that leaves an indelible imprint on those that are left behind. I can truly say I’m a blessed woman whose life has the imprint of many who have pressed their hearts and lives into mine.
From life’s first breath to it’s very last, life is sacred.
“For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.” Psalm 139:13,14
You are loved and missed, Chris.
You lived well and loved much.
See you soon.
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