Dancing in Heaven

MaddyChristine Hope Photography-8601How sad can one really be when someone turned 89.  When, up to a year and a half ago, this someone was still traveling the world, riding her bike to the beach and still lived independently. And yet oma’s passing yesterday is still sad.  Our family isn’t the same without her. She was our bonding factor.  Our family gets together when oma calls us together.  It’s the one thing she always mentioned to me: “Will you still come together as a family when I am gone?”

On Monday I got the news that oma was in her last days, perhaps week.  I wrote her a card right away, wondering if it would get to Holland on time.  It didn’t.  I still want to say these words out loud…

Dear oma,
This could be my last card to you.  This morning I heard you are going down hill.  The end on earth is in sight.  Dear oma, I do hope that it may go fast from here on, without suffering but surrounded by you children.
And yes oma, we call this ‘going down hill’ but in my opinion it can only get better.  Leaving life and the people might be hard, but soon you will have a new life, in a new body, without the suffering of this world.  You have known suffering in this life time with the loss of your baby, you lost both opa and the 2nd man in your life, and let’s not forget about the suffering your children and grandchildren had to endure from time to time, you’ve suffered with them.  Soon you will have forgotten that, very soon you will go to a beautiful place where there is rest, beauty and peace.  That is what I hope for you.  Know that Tim and I think of you constantly these days. Our heart is with with your heart.
And oma… I will never forget what kind of oma you were.  One who’s often very naughty:  washing the dishes but hiding the dishes throughout the house: forks in the planter, plates like books on the book shelf and pots and pans in the yard.  I also loved the fact that as a child I was allowed to dump my food on your plate, if only dad or mom, or mostly opa wouldn’t catch us.  And hmmm, will I mentioned it?  The times where you felt that the utensils we ate with at the restaurant were included in the price 😉 .
In short… omas are there to have fun with, to do naughty things with and to know no rules.  Here in the States they often find me exuberant and crazy at times.  I think I have some of that from you and I don’t mind that one bit.
Lieve oma, the family will not be the same without you… thank you for everything you have given me. You will be well oma, very well.  Until we meet again…
Much love, Tim and Maddy
 
 

Most of you do not know my oma.  I don’t need words to describe her because the photos of our wedding will tell it all.  Let me tell you that oma was the first one on our dance floor and the last one to get off.  Yes, she was almost 88 on the day of our wedding and people were stunned.  Oma was a party girl, knowing no limits.

http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com http://www.jeffwojtaszekphoto.com

I am thinking oma is dancing in Heaven right now!

PHOTO CREDIT: JEFF WOJTASZEK

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8 comments on “Dancing in Heaven

  1. Vicky

    Oh precious friend- I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of you oma! She looks so vibrant in your photos and truly to see her boogie down and having a wonderful time does tell me exactly who she is. I have no doubt there will be an oma shaped hole in your heart for always. But this was such a lovely tribute to her and i have no doubt there is much dancing and singing in heaven right now as they’ve gained another angel.

    Wrapping you in prayers for your grieving heart and pray you feel filled with peace, love, and so many happy memories.

  2. Faith

    Yes, Maddy, it was a real pleasure to have known your Oma such a short time–perhaps too short for us. She was such a joy to be around! She just made me smile! She loved life so much–that’s probably why she didn’t want to let it go. I am glad we got to know her. And I pray that God will fill that empty spot that she left in all you and your families’ lives.

  3. Gretch

    Oh, Maddy I am so sorry for the pain this causes! I loved meeting your Oma at your wedding! She was one with a clearly fun spirit! I really felt connected to her despite our few words. 😉 I’m sending you and your family love and hugs!!!!!!

  4. Christie

    I am so sorry for your loss of your oma. She definitely looked to be full of spunk and fun! Thinking of you as during this time.

  5. Joline

    Dear Maddy,
    What a beautiful artist you are, painting such a beautiful picture of your oma. I am sorry for you for having to miss such a beloved person. I pray that God is really near you and your family, so you can feel His warm embrace. A big hug for you and Tim, love Joline

  6. Ank

    Gecondoleerd, denk aan j(ulli)e!

  7. Robin Messing

    Maddy,
    So sorry to hear you have lost your dear oma who was such a rock in your life. The pictures of her say it all. I am happy for all the love she gave to you; what a wonderful person. We lost Bridie a year ago, who played a similar role in my life. I know it’s a deep loss. Thinking of you and sending you a big hug. love, Robin

  8. Aurelia

    Heel mooi geschreven Maddy. Ik wens je veel troost en liefde toe in deze tijd ❤️

    Liefs,
    Aurelia