Empathy

Our family received some sad news today.  Long time family friend's of my husband lost their daughter on Monday.  Despite the fact that I never met this incredible woman, her passing leaves a big hole in our hearts.  You see this young lady and my husband fought a similar battle.  Sadly, hers was longer and harder than Matthew's, and my heart is just breaking for her family and friends.  Empathy is such a strong bond.  Having been through something yourself, it opens you up to others in a way you just can't imagine before hand.  Being a mother has also changed my view on things.  I know one day I won't be able to fix everything for Eleanor.  That I'll have to let her struggle through things, both little and big, and I won't be able to help.  That I'll only be able to love her and encourage her and give her strength and a safe harbor to come home to.  That scares me.  But it also reminds me that today I am lucky.  I'm lucky that my husband is in good health and so is my daughter.  I am lucky that Eleanor's problems are no worse than a wet diaper or an empty belly.  There will be days to come when this list is longer and scarier but for today I will just be grateful and know that God has a plan for all of us and that he has welcomed our friend into his arms where she can finally rest, and however small that feels right now, it is comforting to know she is safe and finally home.