I have a priceless vase. An unexpected storm blows it over and it is shattered into many pieces. At first, I try to put it together myself. However, I find myself so upset that I ask some friends to help. They seem to be in a hurry to get the job done so I will be happy again. It does not seem to matter if the pieces fit together perfectly. We find some quick drying glue to put the vase together. When the vase is finished, it in no way resembles the original. It is not pleasing to look at; nor can it be used at all. One day, a very slight breeze blows the vase over. It breaks and shatters into many pieces once again.

This time, I realized a special person, an expert in vases, must be sought. I search for the person who originally made the vase. He begins lovingly picking up each piece and patiently sorting them on the table. We carefully examines each piece individually. Slowly and precisely, he glues the first two pieces together. These are set aside to dry completely before the next piece is added. This process continues for over three years until finally, the entire vase is back together.

Much to my surprise, I recognize the vase as the one I owned, yet it is actually a beautiful, unique, new creation. It is a little bigger and stronger, now. I find that it serves a different purpose in my home, as well as being the perfect accent to brighten up a dull room.

I am the broken vase. I was shattered when my son, Mark, died. In the beginning I tried to put the pieces of my life back together the way it was before the tragedy. I soon realized my fragile state and sought the help of many people around me, who loved me and wanted too see me happy again. They listened and did their best to care for me. They were a tremendous help as I worked through much of the hurt and pain for two years.

On the second anniversary of Mark’s death, God showed me that I needed to stop seeking an outward solution to an inward problem. I should not be disappointed in people for only He, the one who created me, is able to make something beautiful of my life. Only He can heal the hurt. With LOVE as the glue,

God has been putting the pieces of ME together.

At this time, I feel as if that glue is still wet. I must continue to wait on God, for His perfect Plan in His perfect time.