Be Still my Soul

These little visits in her room, 

walks down the hall and peeks into the dining room, 

are true reality checks on the brevity of life 

and the wonders of everyday abilities that I want to be grateful for. 

Last week Monika and I visited in Mom's room for a few hours.

Mom never said a word, 

but sharing the intimate space with her

filled the room with feelings that can hardly be expressed. 

I cannot say 

how many times we have said that 'possibly last earthly goodbye',

but if she was able to soak in the sweet aroma 

of her daughters' sentiments, 

reminding her of who she is, what she has believed

and of the hope we share,  

it was the only gift that truly matters.

❤❤❤

Be still, my soul, The Lord is on thy side

Bear patiently, the cross of grief or pain

Leave to thy God, to order and provide

In every change, He faithful will remain

Be still, my soul, thy best thy heavenly friend

Through thorny ways, leads to a joyful end

Be still, my soul, thy God doth undertake

To guide the future as He has the past

Thy hope, thy confidence, let nothing shake

All now mysterious shall be bright at last

Be still, my soul, the waves and wind still know

His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below

Be still, my soul, the hour is hastening on

When we shall be forever with the Lord

When disappointment, grief and fear are gone

Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored

Be still, my soul, when change and tears are past

All safe and blessed, we shall meet at last

Originally a German hymn written by 

Katharina von Schlegel (1697-1768)

translated in 1855 by Jane Borthwick