A little over two weeks ago, I asked a small group of family and friends to gather to honor the memory of our Everly Eden. That day, October 15th is considered Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day. All over the world candles are lit at 7 pm to honor all the angel babies. When these candles stay lit for at least an hour in each time zone, it creates a wave of light. This year, lighting a candle just did not seem like enough. I wanted to do something that would give a greater memory for us.
That evening everyone gathered at 6:30 pm. My plan was to read a brief story about our journey, light Everly’s candle, and then have everyone release lighted sky lanterns. I am not one to enjoy standing in front of a group of people and talk about anything…let alone read something I had written about our emotional journey. My stomach was in knots but I knew that reading my story would help me with the healing process.
I began to read. I began to cry. Tears of sorrow and tears of joy. I would like to share with you what I read that evening:
Five and a half months ago, I went into labor with our second child. Upon arriving at the hospital, we learned that our daughter, Everly Eden had no heartbeat. Thank you all for joining us tonight to remember Everly and recognize Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. Most of you probably do not realize how often this kind of loss occurs. Surprisingly, losses happen to 1 in 4 women. However, tonight instead of focusing on our heartbreaking loss we want to focus on the goodness of God. Walking through this valley has no doubt brought us closer to the Lord. A few verses I would like to share with you have brought us comfort.
Psalm 18:2:
The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety.
– At Topsail Beach last year I gathered beautiful rocks along the beach. At that moment, I had no idea I was pregnant and we definitely had no idea what devastating turn our life would take 9 months later. These rocks are now a symbol to remind me that God is my rock. The one in whom I find comfort. If you are in need of God’s comfort please take a rock. Place it somewhere so that you are reminded of God’s power and grace. (These love rocks are inspired by a story of a mom who lost her two daughters when they were tragically hit by a car in front of their home. You can read more about their story here: http://love-drenched-life.com/love-rocks/)
Romans 8:28:
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those called to His purpose.
– God does not promise that a Christian life will be easy. In fact, the Bible states that the evil one comes to steal, kill, and destroy. Your trials and tribulations will bring you closer to God if you let them. We are all called to share our testimony to shine a light on God’s goodness.
Matthew 5:16:
Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
– Tonight we light this special candle not only to remember our daughter but to bring God the glory for the light that shines within us. I pray that our story will touch your heart and inspire you to seek God’s comfort in your trials and tribulations.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Remind us that you are our rock and that through the trials and tribulations this broken world brings into our lives we can find comfort in only You. And, through You, we find the strength to shine bright for Your glory.
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
- Thank you to my family and friends for taking pictures to help keep this memory!