When Carly and I were asked to be godparents a few weeks ago we humbly accepted the invitation. But it wasn't until we pulled into the parking lot for the baptism and that I began to feel a familiar sadness. The baptism was taking place at the scene of one of my most vivid and heartbreaking memories. I cannot remember the last time I was in the church where my sister's funeral took place. I've been as close as the adjacent chapel where my mother was remarried, but I don't recall being inside the actual church since I walked behind Angela's petite casket. When we entered, I saw her funeral as if it was yesterday...church filled to capacity...uncles and cousins carrying the casket...me walking shell shocked. I don't remember anything else about the fall or winter of 1993 except that moment. To re-experience that was surreal and extraordinary...My heart sank and I didn't know how I was going to get through it...that was until I saw my soon-to-be goddaughter, Chloe.
I looked at this sweet little baby and made a point to love this moment with her. Our friends asked us to share in the raising of their baby girl. To be a role model and show her how to live a positive life. One of the ways I can do that is to be strong and brave for her. Thank you Baby Chloe for giving me a wonderful new memory and easing my pain. We love you very much, little one. The greatest lesson I hope we ever teach you is to be good to others and to love unconditionally. Those are the only absolutes Carly and I know.Peaceful and Precious Things,
Josh
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7 comments:
Josh,
That is one of the most beautiful, heartfelt and touching things I have ever read. What a beautiful way to honor your sister's spirit and show Chloe how much you love her. :) ~Amy
Josh, you and Carly will provide Chloe with a most amazing example of true love. This little one has already worked her own magic by helping heal places in your heart that have been protected for a long while. I am so sorry we had to experience the pain of losing Angela, but I couldn't be more proud to make life's journey, easy or hard, alongside you, my wonderful son. Love, Mom xoxox
Wow - that's powerful. May God bless Chloe and may God bless Angela as her spirit lives on.
Josh and Carly,
You two have wisdom far beyond your age. I couldn't think of two people better suited as God parents. You two inspire me with your amazingingly good attitudes!!!
Uncle Bruce
Josh,
You made me cry, that was so beautiful. Thank you so much, both you and Carly me the world to me! Neil and I are so thankful that you both are in Chloe's life and we couldn't have chosen two better God parents for her. The pictures look so sweet! She's my world now and what you said just touched me so deeply.
Kristi
Love you Josh with all my heart!
That is beautiful. I smile when I think about you and Brian when you were growing up. You were my favorite of all of his friends. I am sure Angie is up there smiling at you and is proud of you.
You will make a wonderful Godfather. It sounds like you and your wife have alot of love to give. Take care and God Bless.
Kathy Lowe
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