Hope

by Pat Carson
(Knoxville, TN)

I just lost my daughter to breast cancer, her name was Hope. Hope was such a wonderful person, even as a child. She always respected me, trusted me and most of all we were friends. I felt hopeless and helpless during the times she was ill. I wanted to do more, it was so hard to watch her suffer.

I felt she didn't deserve it because she was a Christian and believed God for her healing. I was angry at God for a while, but it didn't last long, because ultimately he does what's best for us. He knew she had suffered long enough so he let her rest.

But I still miss her so much. She died two weeks before Christmas and that was the hardest, so I believe that Christmas for me will never be the same again. Hope lived her life to the fullest. Never missing an opportunity to do her own thing. I know she had no regrets. I shouldn't have any either, it's just that I never expected to outlive my child.

I know that life should never be taken for granted, and how precious it is. I'm going to help my grandson to remember his mother for the wonderful person she was. I thank God for her life, even if she was only 36 years old. Hope, I will never forget you sweetie, and look forward to the day I will see you again. God has promised me that I will.