The Power of Love is the Sweetest Thing

Alice & Marion Gleason

So normally I do not post personal family things on my blog, but this really touched me. Today I had the opportunity to visit my Grandma (my dad's mom) in the ICU in Orlando. While undergoing chemo, she suffered a heart attack which resulted in a stroke and left her unable to speak.

When I entered the hospital with my family, we met up with my Grandfather who updated us on her recovery progress. He informed us that she was beginning to say Marion (my grandfather's name), Mark (my dad's name) and Mike (one of his brothers). Then, his eyes filled with tears as he added she was also saying 'I love you'.

I got to spend time, stroking my grandma's arm and watching her observe everyone while remaining silent  (a rare state for Gleasons to be in). I could tell by the way she looked at my dad, my sister and I, my mom and my Aunt Melonie that she was exceedingly joyful. I also could see the amount tof love and respect that my Grandparents shared for one another. I always knew they loved each other, but I never really saw it until I saw my Grandfather look at his dear wife today. My heart was touched.

He told us about the prayers he said when he figured out what was going wrong, and about all of the care he's been giving my grandmother since she was diagnosed with cancer just a short time ago. The spirit of love was in that room today, and I know that it's what's keeping my Grandma going. Just today, being surrounded by some of her children and grandchildren helped her gain a little bit more strength. She was almost completing a few sentences by the time we left!

The power of love, true love, for family and friends is really amazing, and after today, I believe it can work miracles. I sure love my family, and I am so grateful that they're mine! Nothing beats getting to see them and laugh with them, or even just sit in the same room with them! Both sides of my family have brought me mass amounts of joy and blessings and I am truly grateful for the Lord's plan which will keep us together for all eternity!

I hope all of you who read this are really enjoying your holidays! Life is fragile, but it's also beautiful! Don't spend a moment forgetting to smile! Merry Christmas!