Edie Rose

Sometimes, in the course of serving as a pastor and priest, one receives something precious that should be shared with others. A member of our church family, Carolyn Fjeran, expressed her thoughts about moments shared with a special family. I share them now with you:

“I followed guests along the curving driveway that led us to the front door of one of the most hospitable homes in Fayetteville.

“Pots of flowers and plants lined the way to the front door. The landscape was manicured and everything inside and out was obviously prepared in anticipation of our visit.

“The home was recently renovated and decorated to perfection — I’ve never seen anyone design a home as beautifully, even with the help of a professional designer.

“Food was amply prepared. The garden was filled with the strum of a classical guitarist and comfortable seating was placed for guests to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Care abounds in this home.

“In a different venue, I saw the same care given to every detail of their youngest son’s wedding celebration. The outdoor ceremony was presided over by his father and to everyone’s relief, the weather was perfect. A talented cousin accompanied the ceremony on a grand piano. Parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles came from far and wide to celebrate.

“Every detail was carefully prepared — down to the long-stem handmade chocolate roses wrapped by mother and grandmother as favors for the wedding guests. Care abounds in this wonderful family.

“For months their oldest son and daughter-in-law prepared for the birth of their first child, Edie Rose. They moved to a larger house in a better school district and elaborately decorated the new nursery. Grandparents pitched in and helped with projects.

“Edie Rose was anticipated for the full nine months. Even before she was born, Edie Rose was unquestionably loved.

“She came into this world on Sept. 7, 2008, although not in the usual way — Edie Rose never took her first breath here on this earth.

“I only had a moment before the funeral to see this beautiful baby girl lying in her christening gown, tiny fingernails painted pink, wearing her grandmother’s cherished cross pendent. Close by was a pink Bible tenderly inscribed by her mother.

“The care given to every detail of this sad day told me that Edie Rose was abundantly loved — her life was precious beyond words. Care abounds in the memory of Edie Rose.

“Although Edie Rose never took her first breath, her life has great meaning. The love and care showered on her life and in her death remind me — every child should have such abounding love.”