Gigi

Home is where the heart is” is an old English proverb, and it definitely fits my situation. One recent spring, as I watched Mother Nature put on a show, I thought about a big decision I would soon need to make. My husband of fifty-four years was facing some very serious medical issues, including sightlessness. We lived alone in the country on three acres, and it had become very difficult for me to take care of him.

My church family offered to help, but my need was too big.

One Sabbath, I mentioned to them that we might have to return to our hometown. Every Sabbath, a church member would ask me sadly whether I had decided yet.

I would give the same answer each week: “I am waiting on God to lead me.” Every day, our daughter would call to check on us.

She voiced many times that we needed to sell our home and move in with her and our son-in-law. I was hesitant because they had a second floor, and my husband used a walker.

However, while talking with my husband’s physical therapist, he reassured me that the steps would not be a problem. He taught me how to walk him up and down the steps.

I said, “OK; God is at work.” Living in Alabama, United States, we were not able to see all our grandkids and great-grandkids. But when God led us to move back home, we were blessed to see all of them. Now the great-grandkids needed a name for me, so we agreed upon Gigi. A few weeks later, my granddaughter came over to help my daughter do some work, and the great-grandkids came. I had such fun with them, playing games, coloring, and writing the ABCs on my iPad. As they were leaving, my four-year-old great-granddaughter asked her grandmother if I could spend the night with her. My daughter was shocked and asked her, “Who would take care of grandpops?” She replied, “You!” My heart melted! God already knew the plans He had for us—for such a time as this. My friends, soon we will be enjoying another home.

God is preparing a wonderful place for all His children.

He knows what will bring joy to our hearts.

Heaven will be a place filled with delight! I cannot wait to walk and talk with our Father and to meet new friends, old friends, and family members.

And maybe I will even spend the night with my great-grandkid!

Elaine J. Johnson