Mimi III

Yesterday morning our family’s Mimi took her last labored breath as I stood by her bed. When that breath was finished, she entered the Kingdom of God. I believe that singing angels announced my mother’s appearance at the feet of Jesus because another saint had arrived.

My mother came from the poorest area of the poorest state in the nation, and she left this world with only her small house and its furnishings, but she was rich in investments in serving people.

She passed away on her 16th day of no drink or food. We do not know why she lingered so long, but we are sure that there was some unfinished business with the Lord. The Lord was not ready for her to go to her eternal home. When I left her bedside the night before she passed, I got close to her ear and told her I loved her and that my brothers and I have released her to go be with Jesus. The last thing that I said to her was “I will see you later.” No goodbyes, just see you later.

My mother taught me and gave me so many, many things, but one of the greatest was how to be a servant of others. She was a true life-long servant. Whether it was calling elderly shut-ins, cooking for those experiencing health challenges or those bereaving the passing of a loved one, baking caramel cakes for family and friends, sharing her homemade pickles and jelly, or picking up people to carry them to church, she was constantly looking for opportunities to help others. She always put the needs of others before her own. Her joy in life was in serving others.

During the last few days of Mimi’s life, her breathing rate had slowed to six to seven times per minute, and her last few breaths were taken as I was going up and down the hallway to make sure that every nurse and aide and other staff had a donut that I had brought for them. Mimi would have enjoyed knowing that in her last moments on earth that I was serving others in the name of Jesus.

This is part three, but this is not the final chapter about Mimi. I will write more stories about her. Most importantly, I will meet her again when the Lord calls me home to heaven. I have the assurance, not the hope but the assurance, that I will see my mother and dad once again when we are reunited at the feet of Jesus. Oh, that will be glory for me.