Monday, August 17, 2009

Happy Birthday, Noah!

Noah would have been two today. I would like nothing more than to be wiping birthday frosting from his cheeks. Instead, as Josh says, "The big man better be throwing a big bash for our boy in heaven."

I thought it might be appropriate to share Josh's words from Noah's funeral... because in spite of all we lost, Noah brought us such joy, such pride... and we continue to be amazed at the way his short life has impacted those who have heard his story.

Happy Birthday, little Noah man. We miss you.


Deb and I would like to thank all our family and friends for their love and support. The trials of today and the days to come are much easier because of each and every one of you.

Over the course of the last few days I have been processing being a parent and the decisions you face and what you most earnestly desire for your child. To be honest, I was thinking about these things because my mind was dwelling on how Deb and I would not know or experience these things as Noah’s parents.

But then God pricked my heart and put the following thoughts into motion. The decisions parents make are done to help mold their children so they can have a positive impact on others. Nothing makes a parent prouder than their child changing the lives of others in a positive way. I think it is very rare for parents to actually experience their children having a widespread impact on other people and even a small case of such an experience brings more joy than a lifetime of good grades and terrific performances.

Then I started to think about our son, Noah… and I began to realize how blessed we are. We were blessed with a son who, in the shortest period of time, impacted more people then Deb or I could have ever imagined. I will never understand why… why us, why Noah, why now… but I am at least starting to see how Noah and his brief life touched so many people, some who we know but most we don’t, and this has brought us joy. And while we will not experience Noah’s good grades or great performances, I am proud and thankful that God allowed us to experience that joy as his parents.

6 comments:

erin said...

Happy Birthday, Noah! Praying for you guys tonight friends.

Anonymous said...

Happy Birthday Noah! I keep your picture on my desktop and my wall at work. So many prayers are sent your way. I'm saying an extra prayer for your mom and dad tonight. Blessings! Marie Tate

Anonymous said...

Hi Deb and Josh,
I'm thinking of you today and remembering all of you in my prayers. Happy 2nd Birthday, Noah!
Love,
Kathy H.

Tina said...

I hope you had a Happy Birthday Noah and HUGS and prayers to you - Deb!

Anonymous said...

I have been thinking alot about you all this month. My son's name is Noah too and I think of you so often. I continue to pray for your family.

Christine

b canatsey said...

what wise words and so true. thank you for sharing.