It’s been one year since we said goodbye to my amazing nephew, Desmond. While it’s easy to fall into the sadness and let grief take over, I can’t help but feel so incredibly blessed to have had him as such a big part of my life. From the moment he entered this world, 24 weeks prematurely with his identical twin, he was a fighter. Desmond was so full of love and always wanted to put a smile on your face. While we may never understand why God needed him so soon, I know that I will continue to praise God for giving us the time we had with him. Doctors said he’d be lucky to see June, but God made sure he had one last Christmas, his favorite holiday. Desmond lived a life of love and optimism, laughter and fun, kindness and gratitude. Anyone who knew him, knew they were blessed.

Death may take the body but God takes the soul. Our minds forever hold the memories. Our hearts forever hold the love. Our faith lets us know we will meet again.