Yesterday as we talked with nurses and caregivers about my mother, my brother used the word “graceful” to describe her. When I sat with her this morning, her items on the nightstand caught my eye. They included her reading glasses, her St. Padre Pio prayer book, and a prayer card with her name on it. The card read, “Anita. Graceful. Fear thou not; For I am with thee; Be not dismayed; For I am thy God; I will strengthen thee; Yes, I will help thee.” This scripture was particularly fitting as my mom stood at the threshold of eternity. I read the prayer to my mom as she laid in her bed. She went to be with the Lord and my dad only hours after that. We were all so grateful that she experienced a very peaceful passing. This afternoon I received a message from a friend that included the exact same scripture. Later, my sister went outside for a bit. When she came back in, she realized a ladybug was crawling on her. We learned that the insect can symbolize grace. I’m grateful for the ways God shows His presence even in extremely difficult situations.

I Found God today remembering my graceful mother.