Faith is believing even when understanding eludes us.
The Cox family's last Caring Bridge update from January 24, 2014 reads, "Matt flew into the arms of Jesus at 3:32pm. He is one of God's angels now." I've read it a hundred times, there and on the countless posts on various sites, and each time a lump forms in my throat, as it does right now. Sometimes there are tears, sometimes anger and confusion, but eventually there comes a sense of calmness and peace. I don't understand why Matthew was taken from this world, but I believe he is in a better place. I believe he IS one of God's angels and maybe, just maybe, he left us because he had already accomplished what he came here to do. Matthew unified a community and incited a resurgence of faith and good will that perhaps was too long overdue. Each one of us, that has prayed for Matthew and his family, has been reminded how important it is to give thanks for the good in our lives, to stop and appreciate the beauty and innocence of our children, and recognize what a gift our time with them truly is.
It's hard to believe that four weeks ago I didn't know Matthew or his family. And I guess it doesn't make sense to say that now, one month later, I know them - but I feel like I do. Acquaintances, mutual friends, and colleagues have shared so many stories about this remarkable family. Matt, a smart, super athletic, good-natured kid, was a teacher's dream to have in class and a coach's to have on his team. Bill and Ann are known by all to be kind and compassionate, nurturing and supportive, the kind of parents we all aspire to be. Today I can honestly say I am a better person for having come to know them in even the smallest way. I have learned more about faith and courage through their selfless acts of love and devotion than anything else in my life.
My prayers are no longer for Matthew. I know he smiles down from heaven and will forever be at peace. My prayers now are for his family, who may also find comfort in knowing Matt is in the presence of the Lord, but may never lose the ache of having had to say goodbye to their sweet boy. May the prayers and love that surround them, and the knowledge that Matt is with the angels, help them heal. Matthew and his family will forever be in my heart and in my prayers. Please keep them in yours!
The Cox family's last Caring Bridge update from January 24, 2014 reads, "Matt flew into the arms of Jesus at 3:32pm. He is one of God's angels now." I've read it a hundred times, there and on the countless posts on various sites, and each time a lump forms in my throat, as it does right now. Sometimes there are tears, sometimes anger and confusion, but eventually there comes a sense of calmness and peace. I don't understand why Matthew was taken from this world, but I believe he is in a better place. I believe he IS one of God's angels and maybe, just maybe, he left us because he had already accomplished what he came here to do. Matthew unified a community and incited a resurgence of faith and good will that perhaps was too long overdue. Each one of us, that has prayed for Matthew and his family, has been reminded how important it is to give thanks for the good in our lives, to stop and appreciate the beauty and innocence of our children, and recognize what a gift our time with them truly is.
It's hard to believe that four weeks ago I didn't know Matthew or his family. And I guess it doesn't make sense to say that now, one month later, I know them - but I feel like I do. Acquaintances, mutual friends, and colleagues have shared so many stories about this remarkable family. Matt, a smart, super athletic, good-natured kid, was a teacher's dream to have in class and a coach's to have on his team. Bill and Ann are known by all to be kind and compassionate, nurturing and supportive, the kind of parents we all aspire to be. Today I can honestly say I am a better person for having come to know them in even the smallest way. I have learned more about faith and courage through their selfless acts of love and devotion than anything else in my life.
My prayers are no longer for Matthew. I know he smiles down from heaven and will forever be at peace. My prayers now are for his family, who may also find comfort in knowing Matt is in the presence of the Lord, but may never lose the ache of having had to say goodbye to their sweet boy. May the prayers and love that surround them, and the knowledge that Matt is with the angels, help them heal. Matthew and his family will forever be in my heart and in my prayers. Please keep them in yours!
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