When they first came, it was so amazing to me to hear how much Leona loved her Heavenly Father as she was in this state of Alzheimer's. She would say everyday to me, Shalom, or other ladies how much she loved God and how great He was to her. How she would praise Him at gatherings or preach a word or two on how awesome He was. Singing as loud as she could.
She knew He was here with us. She would often say to me that she loved me.
But mostly she would say everyday to her husband the special words 'I Love You' and 'you are a good man.' I wasn't around them a whole lot to see how they were together when she was well but I get the privilege now to see.
Since they have been here, I did see at times the battles she would go through in this disease. Like her body was fighting against the spirit. I can see, though her body is dying, her spirit is still alive and very vibrant.
There would be times she would say I want to go home. She had talked a lot about her mom and brother who had already passed on. Like they were still alive. So I know she is only waiting till she gets to be with them again.
Just recently, Ennis wrote another letter to his kids and family about his feelings.
He said a few years ago he became convicted that he didn't show his wife enough praise and love for all she did. He neglected to say to her everyday that she was doing an awesome job. Giving her kisses, hugs, expressions of love, etc.
He realized he needed to start doing that. After awhile of doing this, his relationship with her got better even though they had a good relationship anyways.
He also realized that she did a lot more expressions of love towards him. He especially realizes now when she smiles at him, when she touches him, and when she and him hug in the morning and she says I love you. He recognizes the affection.
He is very grateful to be able to spend the rest of their lives together, really together! Him being allowed to take care of her 24/7.
He wants his children to cherish what they have. Their spouses, children, and friends. He wants them to show their love and how they feel about them everyday. And not least, to praise God for what he makes possible for them and how much God loves us more than we know.
Cheres, thank you for creating such a beautiful blog to share such a beautiful story. And just so you know, I really enjoy the way you write:-)You kept me captivated the entire time I read each post! Please write more:-)
ReplyDeleteLove you
~Chasah
I agree very well written and expressed. We all can learn so much from this.
ReplyDeleteFor someone who says she doesn't communicate well you're doing really awesome. This is a lovely chronicling a beautiful story of love at it's best. Thank you and continue to keep us all up to date with this love affair. Much love Noah
ReplyDeleteThat was my very first impression of them at the first corporate gathering at which I saw them together. I could feel the love from across the room, before I even met them. There is an awesome sweetness about them both.
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