As we embark upon a new week, we have had to say goodbye to a dear friend and church member over the weekend. I am always nervous about having to explain the facts of life to my daughter and this was definitely a first. So... how do you help a 5-year old understand death when they look at you with those innocent eyes, not knowing that this condition, at some point, will claim us all? Despite the intense stare into my eyes,she seemed to take the news well.
I asked her if she had any questions and she gently replied... "No, not right now mommy."
Now, I still consider myself a younger mother, one that has not quite been gifted with knowing all the right things to say, but I found myself calm and ready to conquer whatever popped into that little head.
Moments later, as I knew it would come, she walked over to me and very seriously asked, "Momma, how do you get to heaven?"
I took a deep breath and explained that being strong in your faith, and staying close to God by praying and asking him to keep you humble is how. She seemed to be satisfied with that answer and returned to her thoughts of color pages, crayons and the like. And I, feeling very proud that I had been given the words to help her understand, found myself thinking about how life has a way of reminding you of the things that are most important. We may not always know the right things to say, but I am sure that will come with more experience.

What I know for sure is this... He sent her to us to bring us back to Him.