I’ve seen and felt a lot of sorrow lately. A beloved aunt Joy, is suffering with Alzheimer’s. My cousin, Larry, had a brain aneurysm and is struggling to recover. My love goes out to them, their spouses, children and grandchildren. On top of all this, I am reminded that on Monday it will be twenty-four years since our car accident. Life is hard and I suppose it was meant to be. Fortunately, happiness can still be found along the way. Our lives bring the tests we need in order to learn and grow.
My sister’s mother-in-law passed away last month and my brother’s father-in-law’s funeral is tomorrow. I am proud of Rosanne and Klint for the many years they took care of their mother, Arlette, in their home. Likewise, Don and Ruth were wonderful, thoughtful and attentive caregivers to their dad, Allen. Through their caregiving, I got to know my in-law’s parents and they enriched my life as I observed the grace they had in their health trials. I’m grateful for their example of enduring to the end.
The Test, written by Janeen Brady, has been a favorite song of mine for many years. I share it tonight with love and empathy for my wonderful family members who are going through some tough times. I love you and I’m sending hugs your way!
Uniting Caregivers 
Barbara, I loved your post! Life is hard and we all have struggles. Today I woke up feeling so grateful, because it was 9 years ago today that my brother, Troy donated his kidney to me.
Cindy Oliver
Awesome Cindy! I needed to be reminded of that today. What a great act of love. Happy day for you and Troy.
Thank you Barbara. The video helped greatly. I have admired you for many years and I love you and Mark. Uncle Wayne
Uncle Wayne, you are a big part of our lives. I will never forget the visit we had before you officiated the marriage between Mark and I. You gave us some great advice, which I have remembered for the past thirty-six years. You and Aunt Joy are in our prayers during this hard time. We love you!
What a beautiful song! I had heard it before, but this was my first time listening to every word. It has a wonderful message, and it made me sob.
This song has given me comfort for many years now. I love the words and message. Remember the Brite Music you grew up on? Janeen Brady wrote that music also. She is very talented.
Such a beautiful post! I’m so thankful that our extended family is as close as our own families. I have been thinking a lot about Aunt Joy, and Larry. My heart aches for them as well as Uncle Wayne and Paula and their families! I love them so! I knew Arletta passed away but didn’t know about Ruth’s dad. Please give them my love! Thank you for reminding me of how much our family is loved and cared about. And how blessed we are to call them family! I love you for your tender heart and wisdom and love!
Thanks Melody, I agree, we are fortunate to have each other and wonderful family memories. I will pass on your love and concern. We love and miss you! It’s wonderful that families can be together forever. Miles or death won’t separate us.