Bittersweet

Around ten years ago my son left for the mission field. 

He was going 5000 miles away and taking his wife and my grandchildren with him. 

This would be the first time one of my sons would live outside of the USA for an extended period of time. 

 I was thrilled and proud they were going to serve the Ni Vanuatu people, but I was also grieved over having them so far away.I felt like my grandchildren would never know me. 

 I was surprised  that I felt both happy and sad over this situation. I found myself feeling guilty over the sadness, thinking a good Christian mom should only be happy, after all my son was going to be a missionary.I struggled with the feelings, Until I came to realize that there are many situations in life that are bittersweet.Having both feelings was appropriate and okay. 

 I could choose how I wanted to respond. Since I tend to be more negative I have had to work hard not to dwell on the sad feelings or the pain over the loss, but I chose to allow God to carry the burden and to focus on the work the kids are doing for God and His kingdom.

And when we are together to enjoy and be thankful for each day. 

I heard bittersweetness yesterday talking to my niece.

Two days ago I posted the nose stints pictures of Danielle. The dentist and doctors are amazed at her remarkable progress, but this progress has been hard achieved, with much pain, crying, and sleepless nights.This little cleft palate baby has suffered much to get to this point, as has her mom and dad. A bittersweet situation indeed. 

   

Her first surgery looms in the immediate future. This has been the goal of the NAM and Nose Stints, to make closing up her mouth  easier.Everyone is excited, but 

it tugged at my heart when Heather asked if I thought it was okay if she prayed for her baby's smile.

Of course, 

Doesn't every mom want her child to have a beautiful smile?

Pain and joy at the same time.

My son, his wife, and my four wonderful grandchildren have been on furlough for the last year. 

We have had so much fun spending time together, and even though they are states away, I love that I can hear their voices on the telephone anytime I want. 

I love hearing about a school day, or a basketball game well played.

All this will change very soon, they are going back to Vanuatu next month.

It will take some getting used to having them so far away again, and I'm writing this because 

my heart is starting to hurt already,and it helps to express it. I know that Jesus will walk us all through the change. Just as He will walk with sweet Danielle and her family as she gets the beautiful smile her mother wants for her.

I'm thankful I can rely on Him:)

God is Good...

"Giving them a garland instead of ashes,

The oil of gladness instead of mourning,

The mantle of praise instead of a spirit of fainting." Is.61:3