I Vote for Heaven: A Tribute to Mary

Today I woke up longing for heaven. There are many days lately that I do, especially after last year’s study of the book of Revelation. The sparkling of precious stones all around…the wiping of every tear…the old order of things passing away…the One on the throne taking His rightful place. And everyone testifying to it. It all sounds pretty comforting about now.

Today is a day to choose and what a gift it is, made possible by courage and many sacrifices. For this reason, I will not deny the choice, but it does not make this impossible choice any easier. Frankly, it makes me just want to vote for heaven.

As I woke to the angst of this day, I soon heard that my sweet friend, Mary would not be waking to this day. Although she has always been astute in many things including people and politics, her vote no longer counts. Her 97 year old body has worn out, and she was ready to be with her Savior. In fact, she has been ready for some time and did not hesitate in telling me so.

But oh how grateful I am for the sacred moments spent at her bedside just a few days ago. She spoke of God’s graciousness to her with many years of good health and to me through my cancer journey. She praised my husband and celebrated my children and their futures. We collectively made the decision that Ledo’s makes the best pizza on the planet. She encouraged my writing and confirmed a truth that is more precious than any other.

With open hands and labored breath, she said, “Your Faith will always be the greatest gift you can give to your kids.”

Now that my ballot is cast and I am missing my dear friend, I realize that just as Mary accepted her call to eternal rest this morning, I must also accept my call to truly live. To truly live means that I accept with thankfulness every blessing that has been given, including the right to vote. It also means paying tribute to those I hold dear and recognizing that the precious few moments with them are what hold the most value. And most importantly, it means that I don’t let a day go by without letting my kids know that my Hope is not in the things or people of this world but in what awaits us in heaven, when among many other beautiful things we get to see our friend Mary again.

Our longtime family friend, Mary. January 9, 1919- November 8, 2016. Forever in our Hearts.