Off to a Rocky Start

My first post and I unfortunately have some bad news. Just this afternoon I received word that my Nonna(grandmother), who had been battling pancreatic cancer for the past year, passed away. It didn't come as too much of a shock to the family. She had been with Hospice for the past 6 months so we knew her time here on Earth was coming to an end, but we just didn't exactly know when. I don't know if knowing that she was going to die in the near future helped anyone or not, I think it does, but I do know that the pain and sadness regardless of whether or not you know is the same. It such a weird thought how just two days ago I had been talking with her on the phone telling her that I would see her soon and that I loved her soooooo much and now she is gone.......or is she?

See I've got a whole new prospective on things. My Nonna was in love with Jesus Christ and the church that he established. She was a humble servant of the Lord who raised her children the best that she knew how and turned to God in prayer whenever she had a chance. I can still remember her sitting by the window reading her Bible with her quadfocals on and scaring the living day lights out of me when I saw her because her eyes were the size of walnuts as seen through her glasses. She was a woman of faith, a believer of the unseen, and because of that I am confident that she is resting peacfully in the shadow..excuss me, radience of our Almighty King. She is now experienceing Joy like no human being could ever come close to experiencing here on earth and doing so for eternity. And she does so because she layed her life at the feet of the One who came to save the world, not condemn it.

So what now? Do I grieve with my family as we say goodbye to our little Nonna? Maybe for a little while, but by the Grace of God I tell you this, I shall see her again. Whether I am called home, or He returns to bring me home, I know she will be waiting for me with her quadfocals on and all ready to welcome me into Gods Eternal Kingdom. In that there is no sadness, only joy, a joy that only comes from the anticipation of that day. So I dont say goodbye, I say I'll see you soon. I will miss you. Love you Nonna.

Maria Tavella
1926-2009