Missing Mom

I miss my mom. I do. I miss being able to pick up the phone, hear her voice, and roll my eyes when she would tell me again, "Don't worry so much." But most of all I miss the well of encouragement and advice I lost when she went up to heaven.

Mom raised four children and managed to maintain a heart full of exuberant love. That is so admirable. If I could call her now, I bet she would have all kinds of advice on what to do the next time Adela spikes a random fever or how to keep my chin up when my husband must work long hours to make ends meet.

These days I need love, advice, and support more than ever before. And God has more than filled the bill. My list of contacts on my phone is full of women who are always willing to lend an ear, give a smile, or offer a hug when I feel frustrated. My Heavenly Father is so good to me. 

But I do miss Mom. 

Many of my readers knew my mother, Mary Bowlin (that is her holding her grandson, Nathan, in the photo above). She was a cheerful woman and a good friend. This week, author Tina Truelove, honored me as I reviewed her devotional, When Chronic Illness Steals Your Joy. As I read the beautiful words of this scripture-based devotional & journal, I thought about Mom. I thought of those last couple of years when she was in intense pain. I thought about all the unfair changes in her life. Tina Truelove's words were full of encouragement. I would have loved to have shared this book with Mom. Perhaps it would have helped her through some of the emotional hurdles that came from having to live with Multiple Sclerosis.

To be honest, I was humbled by Tina Truelove’s decision to write this book. In the 10-day devotional she addresses common thoughts and emotions that those with chronic illnesses often encounter. She brings her own experiences and power of God’s word to help her readers reclaim joy no matter what they are going through.

If you know someone with a chronic illness, I would recommend this beautiful devotional. I am Thankful that God has blessed us with writers like this who will help us stay close to Him, learn with Him, and be loved by Him.

Thank you, Tina.

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