“So to keep me from becoming proud, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud.

“Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”—2 Corinthians 12:7-10.

“For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.”"–Hebrews 13:5.

“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.”–James 1:2-4.

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.””–Matthew 11:28-30

I hope you like them as much as I do. Keep on standing strong and showing your love to the world.

As difficult as it was for you both to deal with the loss of Dora, God had a plan for her, and I believe it was for her to be the sister in Heaven to keep James company.

You know they are together, and even though they lived apart on Earth, their ultimate goal has been achieved: to live and to die.

Dora had a purpose, just as James did, and the both of you do. Write your book, tell your story, but most of all believe that your children loved you just as much as you love them.

My mother lost 2 children within a couple of months. The first was her oldest, an almost 6 year old kindergartner. He was hit by a truck while running across a street. He died of massive brain injuries. A few months later she had her 4th child, and 4th son. He lived only a couple of weeks due to multiple birth defects. I was born the following year.

I *know* that when I die, I will finally get to meet two of my older brothers for the first time and I will be so excited! I believe that the older boy was supposed to die in order to make it easier for my mom to lose the baby so soon after his birth. It gave my mom comfort to know that they were together in Heaven.

Her minister at the time (this was in the 1950′s) told her, “God grants us children, and we are simply given some for longer times than others.”

I am so glad you and John have continued posting on this blog. I check it very often and love when I see a new post! I also want to thank you for your honesty. Raw and open unlike so many. Thanks so much for that. Continue to grieve in your own way and I hope you still have a nice Christmas.

Angee Hudson
Houston, Texas

Writing a book- what a neat idea- you have such a unique and descriptive way with words, Abby.

You are gifted in that way and your words can bring comfort to others who have gone through the same experiences.

Dora Jewel- it has a beautiful ring to it- musical sounding.

Your children are in the best place ever- their heavenly home!

Praying for you……
Hugs,
Marcia

I prayed for you just now, and find my heart feeling sad.

Love
Paty