June 16, 2011 was my niece Kelly's 21st birthday. Kelly was worried that Grandma would die on her birthday. Grandma's health had declined significantly in the last few days and we knew she wouldn't be with us much longer. As you know, my mom was a leap day baby. In 2012, Grandma and Kelly both would have turned 22.
I remember Jo talking to Kelly via cell phone. I yelled "Happy Birthday" so that Kelly would hear it. Grandma then also said, "Happy Birthday" to Kelly. Later in the day, Kelly and Jeff (her then boyfriend, now fiance) stopped to see Grandma. Grandma was able to tell Kelly "Happy Birthday" and "I love you" in person. I knew it was something Kelly would treasure forever.
As evening came that day, I thought about how we were worried that Grandma would die on Kelly's birthday. It occurred to me that Grandma would fight with ever ounce of her being not to die that day. She and Kelly had a wonderful bond and Grandma wouldn't want her to have the memory of her dying that day. I just knew we were "safe", at least until the clock struck midnight and it was a new day.
Kelly just posted about this on facebook and it made me smile. Here is what she wrote about her 21st birthday"
I wasn't out drinking- but I did go visit my Grandma for the last time and received the best birthday gift ever- a "Happy Birthday" and "I Love You" from her. I was looking forward to celebrating our 22nd birthdays together this year (she was a leap-day baby) but I know she will be celebrating with me from heaven.
I knew Kelly would forever remember those words Grandma said. But in reading her words, it struck me that we never know how things will go. We worried that Grandma would die on Kelly's birthday, and yet that day, Grandma gave Kelly the best present ever...one she will treasure the rest of her life.
Happy 22nd Birthday Kelly! And I know you are right that Grandma is celebrating with you today...all the way from Heaven! May you feel her love surround you today.
No comments:
Post a Comment