It was February 23, 2007. Tug and I had planned a vacation and were anxious to escape from the hectic pace of the Dallas metroplex to the Texas coast.  Our bags were packed, and we were scheduled to leave later that morning. We looked forward to the warm Gulf breeze, the cry of seagulls, and, of course, great seafood. 

At 4:30 a.m. the phone rang.  It was unexpected, and I felt suddenly apprehensive. The following minutes took us from a place we knew to an unknown territory. We were advised that my youngest son, Shane Ingram, had been in an automobile accident and did not survive.  At the age of 36, “my baby” was gone, leaving two young children of his own. I was devastated, and my emotions were numb. What would I do without him?

The next few weeks were a blur with bad moments and good moments.  Family was called in, funeral arrangements made, and memories of Shane were re-lived by everyone. The family and friends helped me survive this difficult period.

However, when I did begin to regain my sanity, I am ashamed to admit that I did not act in a Christ-like manner.  I spoke harshly against God.  Was Shane’s death an act of God? How would I fully live again when my life was so full of hurt?  But as time passed, I began to realize how truly fragile life is and that I am not in control.  When Shane died, I grieved beyond words.  I was sure no one understood my heartache and pain.  I was so full of self-pity that I could not look beyond the walls of my grief to the comfort of my Heavenly Father, much less to others who had their own griefs. God  remained patient, loving, faithful and merciful.  I had not!  The lesson I learned, and I hope you will remember, is that God is full of mercy and blessings.  Regardless of your heartache or pain, He is with you when you wake up, when you go to sleep, and every moment in between.

Prayer:

Gracious Lord, I am grateful You never run out of the love, compassion, mercy and grace I need.  Thank You that I can begin each new day with You.  Amen.

 Contributed by Bev Tuggle