Small and Simple Things
- Tanya
- Jan 1, 2017
- 3 min read
[This post was written by Brandon's mother.]
Disclaimer: sorry for the extended post, but I felt the need to express myself.
Grief, pain, disappointment, sorrow and despair seemed to be a common theme throughout 2016 beginning on Jan. 1 with the tragic loss of a dear sister in our ward. I felt so much pain and sorrow for her family for it was a senseless loss. Similar losses followed of people I knew and their children. Little did I know our year would end on a similar note with the loss of our beloved Brandon.
Nothing could have prepared me for this gut wrenching blow. My life (our life) was completely turned upside down and inside out as my worst nightmare had come true - the death of a child. How would I survive such a blow? A mother-child relationship is unique in that there is no one else in the entire world who can claim that relationship. One can have many aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers, sisters, grandparents and friends, but there is only one mother. Losing a child is like losing a limb, it can never be replaced.
Yet, even at the very onset of this difficult journey, the Lord's tender mercies enveloped me in love, comfort, enlightenment and peace. I found reassurance and strength in the Savior's words, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14:27) I never fully understood how one could feel peace in the midst of so much grief and pain, until now. This blessing of peace set the tone for the rest of the journey, giving me the courage to press forward so I could be a strength to my family.
As difficult as 2016 was, I will not regret the events which unfolded... The trials of 2016 were tough, but far outweighed by the blessings and life lessons learned. I've gained a new respect for trials and adversity as the words of Paul the Apostle ring out, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13) The strength I receive each time I go to the house of the Lord to worship and to serve is perhaps my best kept secret. It is there, in His house that I experience clarity of mind, peace to the soul and reverence for God, for the Savior and especially for His infinite and atoning sacrifice, which translates to a rejuvenation of hope and strength to press forward on this mortal journey called life.
"Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life." (3 Nephi 31:20)
I miss Brandon deeply, more than words can express. But I am comforted in the knowledge and blessings of temple sealings which bind families for time and all eternity. Knowing that [my children] are my children for all eternity eases the pain of loss. (not sure if they feel the same though...LOL!)
2017 is now here, offering a blank slate of new stories, new adventures, new trials, new achievements and a renewed hope of a brighter future for our families, friends, communities and even our great nation. Let's write a good one. As I look ahead to the future, I leave you with the insightful words of my son Brandon Ikaikaokalani Reas, "I believe that we as people have the ability to create and effect change from small and simple things."
BIG MAHALO and ALOHA to the countless family and friends who bless my life each and every day. I love you all forever!
Here's to 2017! Bring it on!
Let's get out there and make a difference in the world.
*meme compliments of Lindsay Reas in memory of her brother Brandon.