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You never think it will happen to you, but on June 30, 1983, our youngest son; Jerome was killed in an accident. I remember repeating constantly: "When I am weak, then I am strong". The morning of his funeral, faith waning, I asked: "Lord if you really are with me during this, will you send me a sign, something I can see?". As the procession approached the cemetery, all had to stop as a turtle was blocking the driveway. A good deacon friend removed the turtle so the procession could proceed. Turtles were special to Jerome and I as we spent hours at the lagoon near our home watching them. They were part of our love and now a sign of God's love and faithfulness to me that day.
Later as I would visit the cemetery, I would look for the turtle hoping to keep it for a pet and remembrance. One day it occurred to me that it would not be good for the turtle to leave its natural habitat and be confined. It helped me to release Jerome to the Lord knowing he was happier in heaven than earth even though I ached for him.
As days and months passed the Lord was faithful to us sending us comfort and reassurance in dreams, words of scripture, images, words of song, real caring of friends and words of prophecy. As Christmas approached, I was apprehensive about it. We were having flooring and carpeting laid in our home allowing me to ignore Christmas until the week before when the workmen finished. We started to unpack Christmas things and Jerome's stocking and ornaments were there. I told my husband, Lenny, that I just wanted to skip Christmas for this year. He told me that we had to have it for our other three children. That night I prayed: "Lord, please give me some peace, joy and anticipation this Christmas, don't let me tough it through this beautiful season. Please send me a sign that you are with me, like another turtle."
The next day a beautiful friend stopped by the office where I work and said: "I love you, Merry Christmas" and gave me a gift. When I opened it, I discovered a ceramic turtle! I did enjoy peace, joy and anticipation that week of Christmas. On Christmas morning, I did miss Jerome, but when we sang: "Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above; Glory to God in the highest", I knew he was one with us.
"With His pinions He will cover you, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His faithfulness is a buckler and a shield." Psal. 91 Vs. 4......and He will send a turtle. Praise the Lord! Carol Breidenbach, Defiance/Junction, Ohio.
A lesson plan on death is available to accompany this story
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