Recapturing Austin’s Final Days-10-26-11

Since it will be a year on October 31, since Austin went to be with Jesus, I decided to give a brief recapturing each day of these last days that our family was blessed with Austin’s sweet presence. I am wiping tears as I write this and I know the emotions that we felt right after his passing will continue to get stronger these next few days. But we believe that God can use the painful things we experience in life to touch a heart that is maybe growing “cold” or is needing to re-adjust some priorities…..

It is a beautiful picturesque fall day here in North Carolina. As Alisha and I were driving home from her violin lesson this afternoon, my mind was flooded by a mirage of bittersweet memories of this Wednesday exactly a year ago. It was a gorgeous day almost identical to today and Austin, Alisha, baby Kyra and I were also on the way home from Austin and Alisha’s violin lessons. I had to stop for a few errands and Austin was doing something on his laptop instead of wanting to be in the driver’s seat this time. He was teasing me about making him starve and then hinting to me about the Taco Bell that we would be conveniently passing on our way home! I told him that because I love him so much and because they had to wait on me, I would treat them to Taco Bell. I still have that receipt and it is a special reminder of that day and how we will never regret even the “little special things” that we do for our children. I would have never dreamt that this would be the last time that I would have the privilege of buying something for my dear son. Only God knew that Austin only had these last four days on this earth.

If you knew you only had four days left with one of your loved ones, how would you treat them differently or how would you prioritize the time you are spending with them. Maybe you would want to tell them “sorry” about an attitude you had or maybe tell them just one more time how much you love them and what they mean to you. The regrets you will have are the things that don’t cost you anything…just your time!

-Cindy

 

7 Comments
  • mary
    Posted at 00:22h, 27 October

    Thank you for reminding me of this day exactly a year ago and I too am saddened. However,today,was a wonderful day with lovely Alisha and I marvel at her resilience and beauty. She has a beautiful heart! Please give my love to all of the family, Mary

  • Marlene Peachey
    Posted at 00:23h, 27 October

    This is such a good reminder, Cindy. Thanks for sharing. You and your family have been on my mind and in my prayers.Wonder what Austin has been up to?? I’m sure he is having the BEST of times. So thankful we were blessed to know him! Hugs and blessings. The Peacheys

  • Ken & Dawn Neff & family
    Posted at 14:30h, 27 October

    Cindy, Thanks for the reminder, & I’m so happy that you have those sweet memories to treasure in your hearts of your dear Austin. May God’s peace & comfort be yours during this bittersweet time of remebering those special moments.

    Love,
    Ken & Dawn Neff
    & family

  • Janelle Burkholder
    Posted at 14:39h, 27 October

    Death has a way of making time into an illusion; on one hand it seems like your heart has been broken and wrenched apart for half of forever yet on the other hand it seems like just yesterday you heard those last words, savored that last kiss, gazed into those eyes for one last time.

    “The best way to have a bit of Heaven in your home is to have part of your family in Heaven.”

    Love and Prayers, Janelle Burkholder

  • Ray & Bertha Yutzy
    Posted at 16:07h, 27 October

    Thank you for the reminder to cherish our loved ones while we can. Duane, as a father, I hardly know how I could cope with such a loss and the memory of it. But I see the strength you have and recognize it comes from THE FATHER, and know I have the same access to that strength. It really encourages me to see that in you. I weep with you during this time of remembering.
    Ray

  • Montana Severe
    Posted at 21:24h, 18 October

    I am shedding SO many tears for you tonight as I read these posts… My heart aches for you all but I rejoice in your great and inspiring hearts!!!! There are no words to express how incredible you all are. I am praying for you every hour of every day. I love you
    Montana

  • Duane & Cindy
    Posted at 14:31h, 19 October

    Thank you, Montana! We praise God for His faithfulness and for caring people like you! ~Cindy

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