The Brave Little Soul

The Brave Little Soul By: John Alessi

Not too long ago in Heaven there was a little soul who took wonder in observing the world. He especially enjoyed the love he saw there and often expressed this joy with God. One day however the little soul was sad, for on this day he saw suffering in the world. He approached God and sadly asked, "Why do bad things happen; why is there suffering in the world?" 

God paused for a moment and replied, "Little soul, do not be sad, for the suffering you see, unlocks the love in people's hearts." The little soul was confused. "What do you mean," he asked. God replied, "Have you not noticed the goodness and love that is the offspring of that suffering? Look at how people come together, drop their differences and show their love and compassion for those who suffer. All their other motivations disappear and they become motivated by love alone." 

The little soul began to understand and listened attentively as God continued, "The suffering soul unlocks the love in people's hearts much like the sun and the rain unlock the flower within the seed. I created everyone with endless love in their heart, but unfortunately most people keep it locked up and hardly share it with anyone. They are afraid to let their love shine freely, because they are afraid of being hurt. But a suffering soul unlocks that love. I tell you this - it is the greatest miracle of all. Many souls have bravely chosen to go into the world and suffer - to unlock this love - to create this miracle for the good of all humanity."

Just then the little soul got a wonderful idea and could hardly contain himself. With his wings fluttering, bouncing up and down, the little soul excitedly replied. "I am brave; let me go! I would like to go into the world and suffer so that I can unlock the goodness and love in people's hearts! I want to create that miracle!" 

God smiled and said, "You are a brave soul I know, and thus I will grant your request. But even though you are very brave you will not be able to do this alone. I have known since the beginning of time that you would ask for this and so I have carefully selected many souls to care for you on your journey. Those souls will help you create your miracle; however they will also share in your suffering. Two of these souls are most special and will care for you, help you and suffer along with you, far beyond the others. They have already chosen a name for you". God and the brave soul shared a smile, and then embraced.

In parting, God said, "Do not forget little soul that I will be with you always. Although you have agreed to bear the pain, you will do so through my strength. And if the time should come when you feel that you have suffered enough, just say the word, think the thought, and you will be healed." Thus at that moment the brave little soul was born into the world, and through his suffering and God's strength, he unlocked the goodness and love in people's hearts. For so many people dropped their differences and came together to show their love.

 Priorities became properly aligned. 

People gave from their hearts. 

Those that were always too busy found time. 

Many began new spiritual journeys, some regained lost faith - many came back to God. 

Parents hugged their children tighter. 

Friends and family grew closer.

 Old friends got together and new friendships were made. 

Distant family reunited, and every family spent more time together. 

Everyone prayed. 

Peace and love reigned. 

Lives changed forever.

 It was good. 

The world was a better place. 

The miracle had happened. 

God was pleased.

Today, I talk to you not about Audry. Audry is doing great, but today I introduce you to a new face. Danika Marie Dietering, born on November 16th, at 7lbs 3oz, to Danielle & Scott. Danika like Audry has SMA. I havent really explained the "types". Danika is considered a type 0. She has no copies of the survival motor neuron like Audry, but where Audry has 3 copies of the survival motorn neuron 2, Danika has 0. Different experts argue different things about the SMN2 copies and how they affect our kids. They do know that the SMN2 does produce a little bit of the protein needed. Danika is a miracle baby. She is currently 8 months old and has fought her way past the expiration doctors gave her. She like Audry is a gem. I remember when she was introduced to the support groups like it was yesterday. When faced with the routes of care for SMA it's never easy. Do I give the gtube? Cough assist? Hospice? Trach? Her parents chose pallative care. They wanted to give her the most comfortable route possible. They've spent their days appreciating the small things in life. The loved deeper, hugged longer, and gave as many sweet kisses as they could. The last couple of days Danika has fought especially hard. In her battle SMA is winning. As her heartrate drops her respirations get higher. She's had a few close calls, and hospice is saying she's started the process towards the inevitable. Through it all Danielle has remained positive and strong. SMA is a lot of work, it requires physical strength, as well as mental. The battle that SMA moms face everyday watching their kids and being uunable to take away the pain is torture. These wounds are nothing in comparison to the scars that are left behind when their child passes. You see SMA is a lifelong battle, even after it's gone the parents are left to sufffer the heartache of losing their child. Danielle has asked not that we pray for her to beat this, because she is already passed the point of no return, but to pray that it's painless. They sweet Danika not suffer. I ask that all of you reading this post, stop what your doing and say a prayer for Danika, and for the entire family. For strength, and acceptance, for peace, comfort as they prepare to say goodbye, and most importantly healing in their hearts.  God sent Danika here for a reason to touch people, and bring us together. Same as Boog. However, it doesn't make this process any easier.

"Embrace The Suck"