What Is In A Name?

Many of you know (probably ALL of you) that my Grandma Richmond died on January 26th, 2011.

It wasn't a huge shock or certain tragedy....we knew it was coming, in fact we had even prayed it would. My entire family knew that Grandma was just not where she wanted to be. She was where she NEVER wanted to be.

However..before you think I'm cold and unfeeling, let me explain why this death experience has been like NO other for me.

• Heritage. You can not beg, borrow or steal one like the Richmond's have. Our entire family came together to honour and celebrate my Grandmothers life. Before she died, we piled into a small room at the care facility she lived at and sang to her, sat with her and prayed with her. All 15 great grandchildren were at her funeral, all but one grandchild and all her children. My grandmother invested in US, not things. Her room was cleaned up after she died in a matter of 20 minutes...the thing that remains is the heritage she (and my Grandpa) have left us.
• Relationship. My grandma had a relationship with me that she invested in. Daily, weekly, monthly.
• Regrets. She had none! My grandmother lived with a purpose filled life...and that was to love people into the kingdom of Jesus. Plain and simple.
• Healing. My Grandma has been healed. She is walking and laughing and singing once again...and THAT is a promise she believed in with her whole heart.

I do not grieve like those who have no hope. I will not take my place here for granted.

Grandma-you will be missed but not mourned...for He has turned my mourning into dancing again and lifted my sorrows. I can't stay silent, I must sing for His joy has come.