Last year we shared a very special Note by Georgia Beard-White. In 1995 her son Victor was born with a serious heart problem, requiring a transplant just before his third birthday. Doctors believed he would live no more than 9 years, yet at 15, Victor had far exceeded their expectations. But on June 23, 2012, his health began to fail. Even then, Georgia reminded us what we all need to remember in such times:

"Some have advised me, If Victor wants to live, do everything to him (not for him) that's possible to keep him here, no matter what these things may do to him or the quality of life he would have as a result. Others have told me, Maybe another hospital or doctor can do something else, not considering if he's strong enough to make it to another hospital or doctor. People have said, You're not ready to let him go, not considering that it is not about us being ready to let him go but God being ready to receive him home.

If God decides to turn everything around and Victor is yet to stay with us longer, then we will thank God and rejoice in His gift of life for Victor. But if it is God's will to take Victor home, then we will still thank God for the gift of 16 years that He has allowed us to have with Victor..."

That same day Victor passed from Georgia's arms into the waiting embrace of our Heavenly Father. It's been 3 months and while most would still be in grief, Georgia again reminds of us of God's love. Here's a portion of a message she recently sent to those who had been praying for her and Victor.

Take care & be God's,

Chuck

What a journey we have taken over the past two years. I want to thank each of you for your amazing courage to take on such a journey with me. God was the pilot and we went along for the ride. This morning I am experiencing the awesomeness of our God. I can't explain it, but He has truly blessed me through my sorrow. I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy. (John 16:20)

I went back to work two weeks after Victor's celebration, not realizing I was worn down spiritually, emotionally and physically. I thought being around people and throwing myself back into my job would fulfill my empty days. I finally realized that was not what I needed. What I needed was some intimate time with God. He was the only one who could heal my pain and ease my sorrow...All I had to do was call on Him and he was there.

Although Victor's physical body is gone, his spiritual presence is still here. I feel him sitting next to me, I feel him when the sun shines on my face, I feel him when a cool breeze brushes my shoulder, I hear him whispering words of encouragement in my ear, I feel him walking by my side, I feel him wiping away my tears, I feel him resting on my shoulder in church as he often did, and I see him in the rainbows.

Yes, I cry often, but my tears are filled with so much joy of the gift God blessed me with in my precious child Victor. How in the world can a year with my mother passing in January and my son going home in June be the best year of my life? Believe it or not, it is possible. I am a witness to God's awesomeness.

I've been blessed with a promotion and the wonderful opportunity to be the Assistant Human Resource Director. I've found a wonderful new place to live. In December I am graduating with my Masters. And Victor's foundation has been organized and we're ready to share his legacy with the world. Everything, Everything, Everything, Everything works for the good of those who love the Lord. Hallelujah, Praise you, God. Gloooooooooooooooooooooory!!!!!!!

So if you ever have a doubt of the goodness, grace and mercy God has for us, let my and Victor's journey be a testament to it. Always know that whatever you may be going through, God will take care of you. I know all of you prayed for me and just know that I have made it and am making it on those prayers. I will continue to lift each of you in prayer, also. Keep praying, keep believing but above all, keep the faith.

Love, Joy and Peace,

Georgia