Celebrating Life

Well, this is going to be a more serious post today. I could not sleep this morning for thinking and praying about it. Today we will be going to a funeral for an 8 year old little boy. Skyler Sanders battled a malignant inoperable brain tumor for 2 years. This week, he "earned his wings," as his dad put it. I just can't help but think "what if it were my baby." I've spent many late night feedings praying for the Sanders family...believing in a miracle for them. Well, they (and I) believe this was God's healing miracle...Skyler is not battling anymore. God is Sovereign. This was his answer to all our prayers. So many people saw his struggle, prayed with him, and will celebrate his life with us later today. One thing that stands out to me is the fact that Skyler never once complained...he kept his head held high and fought that tumor with all he had! He touched a lot of people in just a few years. His parents are wonderful people facing an ache I don't dare imagine. This was written by his dad, Ryan just a couple of weeks ago:

"Thank you for your continued prayers and words of encouragement. This has been a challenging week. We will continue to pray and believe for this miracle. This is the most difficult thing that any of us have had to deal with. It makes you realize that there are a lot of things in life that seem like big deals that are not. I have learned to get over the petty things and get on with living life. Life is to short. That's what I would would tell you today. Take advantage of each and every day as life can change in an instant. Make sure you are on the right path and if you're not, get there. There is no way that we could get through this without the support that we receive from our family, friends and even strangers. But, most importantly we have the Lord on our side and the power of prayer is an amazing thing."

And this was the update earlier this week:
Skyler Ryan Sanders - March 11, 2002 - July 12, 2010 Skyler won his battle and earned his wings today. After a 2 year battle with a DIPG, Skyler went to be with Jesus at 1:30 this afternoon. He was very much at peace as he took his last breath. He held on for so long for us. Skyler was always more concerned with others. He was an amazing little boy that touched many lives in his short 8 years. At this time, I'm not real sure what to say. We will probably update more as the days go on. Today has been the most difficult day we have ever had. In the days to come we will be planning the arrangements and will let everybody know the details. We should know more tomorrow. We also have several family members at our house so we are requesting some privacy as we put together all the details for the days to come. They will be long and challenging. Thank you for the prayers and words of encouragement. As I read all the updates on this site and on facebook, we can't help but to feel the love from so many people. We love you Skyler! "You, Me, Together Forever!"

I am so thankful for every day and every moment I've got with my family. Life is precious and very much worth celebrating!