Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Happy Birthday Oliver!

We sang this specific verse at your funeral for a reason:
"He gave me my eyes that I might see
The color of butterfly wings.
He gave me my ears that I might hear
The magical sound of things.
He gave me my life, my mind, my heart:
I thank Him reverently
For all His creations, of which I'm a part
Yes, I know Heavenly Father loves me."

In my mind I can see you with Father up above dancing with butterflies, listening to His calming voice, and watching over us.

"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." 
I don't have many memories of Oliver because our time with him was so short. However, I'll never forget the outpouring of love we received from our family and friends. I mean, my mother even flew home from Africa for heaven's sake! I love Marjorie Pay Hinckley's quote, "Be kind. Everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." So with that I wanted to challenge everyone reading this to try to do something kind for someone else today.  During the entire year, I have not been able to re-read the many notes/letters of care we received. But today I am reading them again, and I wanted to give a sampling of some of the kindness shared with us one year ago. Today, I glean strength from the Savior and all of you.

"My heart is heavy as I can honestly say that I understand what you are going through ..."
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"In the span of two short days you have witnessed a valiant spirit leave this world ... we're certain we cannot comprehend the joy that will be experienced when we see each other again."
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"We are thinking of you."
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"It is my hope and prayer that you may be be able to feel some peace."
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"My heart aches that you are hurting."
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"Thank you for reminding all of us to treasure the ones we love."
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"You are in my prayers each and every day."
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"We know you will fare well."
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"Oliver is a wonderful example to our family as we've had beautiful opportunities to talk about our Heavenly Father's plan."
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"I also felt a deep sense of gratitude for the blessing it is to fast and pray for each other."
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"Somehow, when our thoughts turn to him, we can hear faint echoes of a pre-mortal past and a promising future."

Grow, little flower, reach for the light, your sweet little spirit forever in bloom.
Glow, little star, tucked into the heavens, cradled with care in the curve of the moon.
Blow, little leaf, to a beautiful someplace safe in the sheltering arms of a breeze -
Know, little one, that you'll always be with us ... forever held close in our love's memories.

10 comments:

Lindsey and Ben said...

What a beautiful tribute! I want you to know that I have been thinking of you all day today! Call me back when you get a chance!

Eileen said...

I appreciated your thoughts, Krista. You guys know what a privilege it was for us to be there last year. Love, mom (Eileen)

Haskell's said...

Krista,

I know the pain of the loss of someone you love, but I have no idea what it is like to lose your child. I am so sorry. My heart hurts when i think about the pain your heart feels everyday and what it will feel like until you get to hold the sweet little baby. Nothing i say will make it better, ok, or really matter I know that, but you need to know how brave I think you are. You are such an example and I wish i could be brave one day. It's been 14 years since my sarah died and I cry all the time and it's bee shorter since bubba died, but my heart doesn't stop hurting inside. it's like my soul well at least part of it was taken each time I was forced to say goodbye to quickly. You are so strong. You make me want to fight for that same strength. Hang in there. I am thinking of you and your family.

Meg said...

I love you sister and I'm thinking of you today!

Sarah and Duane said...

It was so nice to read your thoughts with the reminder to always love and help those around you and to live each day to it's fullest. We love you and are thinking of you.

Amy Louise said...

We love all of you Krista, Steve, and Ethan so much. Please know that Oliver will always be remembered and loved too. Luvs from the Ogdens.....

Kim said...

Thank you so much for sharing your love and personal thoughts. Always thinking of you.

Colette and The Chickenwings said...

Thanks for your thoughts and for the faith that shines through your grief.

Taunya said...

That was so touching. I am so grateful for your faith and example.

Christy said...

Thank you for that post - it was really beautiful! You are still in my prayers - I think about you a lot and hope that your pain is starting to fade (a little)! I hope you know how much I admire your strength! You are an amazing woman! thank you for your example! Some of us don't handle our trials with as much faith and trust as you! LOVE YOU!