By Dianne M. Ullrich
Life is a gift that is thrust upon us whether
we want it or not (like the unwanted tie or blouse we get as
a Christmas gift). Faith is a gift that is freely given – is
freely offered. We decide whether to accept or reject
it. I came to realize that death and suffering are a part of
life and, if understood, are not devastating for the dying
or those whose lives they touch. It has really been hard to
explain this to people who think I should be devastated by
the experience and cannot comprehend how I can say I
treasure those 18 months. Maybe I’ll never be able to
explain it – maybe it is something you have to experience.
It is an encounter with the mystery of God – a God who never
promised life without suffering or joy without sorrow, but
He is a God who provides comfort for our tears and lights
our way with His “little miracles.”
Dianne Ullrich was a caregiver for her
mother. She spent 15 years in the corporate sector and has
volunteered as a religious educator for over 25 years
teaching students ages pre-school to adult. She writes
much of the material she uses in her classes and created a
religious pre-school program for children with special
needs.
Printable Version
