35 years ago today, my aunt was killed in a car accident. I was 9, and her daughters were 10 and 8. I remember that day so vividly, probably because it was the first time I questioned God and His reasons for things. What, I asked, could be the purpose of taking the mother of two little girls? My cousins were – and still are – like sisters to me, and I grew up feeling so sorry and so guilty that I had a mom and they didn’t.
My aunt Barbara was one of my most favorite people. I remember her smile, her voice, her gentle touch when she brushed my hair, and how she loved to spoil us girls with toys and ice cream cones. Soft spoken when you had an important question and quite the yeller when she was angry, Aunt Barbara was full of life and loved to have fun.
We girls grew up together, and my cousins, Chrissy and Julie, are two of the strongest, kindest, most beautiful women I know.
My mom once said to me, when I questioned God’s reason for taking Aunt Barbara too soon, “Maybe He felt that she could do her work better from Heaven.” You know what? I think she was right.
My uncle Jim worked hard as well. Devastated after the accident and feeling unequipped to raise two young girls by himself, he stepped up and found his own way. Such courage and strength.
When I question things that happen, I always try to remind myself that God has a grand plan … We’ll know and understand all of His reasons someday when we’re with Him. For any of us who have watched a parent of young children be called home by God, may we remember the power of a mother’s work – wherever she may be – and find comfort in it.
Love you Aunt Barbara, Chrissy, Julie, and Uncle Jim …
January 29, 1980
The World of Author/Mom Alicia Murphy! 