Retrospective — The Ghost of Thanksgiving Past!
Retrospective
The Ghost of Thanksgiving Past
This is not a craft related post. It is one of retrospection and what I have learned over the last five years.
I had no way of knowing that on November 25, 2010 my life would quickly be forever changing. Above is a picture of me with my oldest son, Craig.
Before I get into the back story, you should know this picture was taken just days before Craig was discharged from the US Air force under less than honorable circumstances. This is the last time I was able to see him in uniform.
That Thanksgiving in 2010 was wonderful. I can still smell the aroma of Mike smoking the chicken and the turkey that was roasting in the oven. Family friends from North Augusta had joined us along with some of Craig’s co-workers. That was the last Thanksgiving I spent with my eldest son.
There was fun, fellowship and much thanksgiving for all of the blessings we had been given. This Thanksgiving of 2015 is retrospective. It is not filled with regret. It is filled with hoping that some how, some way my story will help someone else who is going through a rough circumstances.
My first marriage ended in 1998 after I discovered his homosexuality. Many people think that homosexuality is harmless. Live and let live. Believe it or not, I agree with that statement to a point.
I do not have to answer for any one’s life but my own. Sin is Sin, plain and simple. When your life choices cross the line, you are simply hurting others while living your “freedom” you are sentencing others. By the way for any homosexual’s that may be reading this, your “freedom” will lead to death.
For those of you who are new to the “rest of the story” as Paul Harvey would say should know that that handsome young man you see in the photo above is currently incarcerated in a Jesup, Georgia federal prison. He will spend a term of 6 years and be on probation for an additional 10 years. To date he has served 2 years 9 months.
Also, you should know if I had had any idea of what this kid was doing, I would have personally turned him in.
He was arrested, and rightly so for possession and distribution of child pornography. I can not express how much my heart aches. We taught him right from wrong.
Through this entire experience one of the most encouraging things that was told to me was “You can teach them, however, you can not make them learn”. No words have ever been spoken that hold such truth. Those same words also gave me much comfort.
I would love to stand by, help support and organize Christ following families who are going through circumstances that tear at the fabric of your very soul. Support for the wounded heart.
I am not a victim. I am a conqueror. I am also brave and stronger than even I realize.
How do I cope? Honest answer is, sometimes I don’t. I will watch old TV shows or movies, listen to music or just cry. That is where bravery comes in. I’ve learned to go on with my life. Serve Jesus and others the best that I know how.
I sought Christian counsel, held on to my family and friends even more and thank the dear Lord I’ve survived. Time heals nothing. It only acts as a buffer.
Craig stays in my prayers, he will always be in my heart. I miss him. I want the best for him. I’d love to say one day that he used his experience to change himself and prevent this from happening to others. However, there is no crystal ball. I have no clue as to what the future will hold.
So, this year I will think of my son and even tear up a little. I will enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with my husband and youngest son along with a dear family friend.
I have so much to be thankful for. I’m healthy. My family is healthy and even our 3 dogs are healthy. We have been blessed in many ways and try to bless others when and where we are able.
There is hope and there is victory. Try to remember that when you are in the middle of adversity. You have so much to offer. Do not lose hope, and do not allow anyone to take your hope or joy away from you. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” Proverbs 3: 5-6.
One last scripture “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death, sorrow or pain. All these things are gone forever.” Revelation 21:4
Happy Thanksgiving my friends. I love you all. Stamp Happy and be a BLESSING! Until next time…
