Heaven's Not So Far

We often think of heaven as a far-off place, but really, it's not as far as you might think.

I think of this thought often, most likely because I have been around so many that have had suicidal ideations. Our daughter when she came to us would say often that she wanted to die.

I get it! Life was so hard and going through the pain of healing can sometimes be far worse that the act that caused the pain. It's when this idea is used to just get attention, especially after they have shared so often it's not really true, mostly it is said out of anger.

I am not afraid to die.

I know where I am going, and I know who I am going to be with. So, death is not my biggest fear. Spiders and insects are higher on the fear factor than death.

When our daughter starts to threaten her life, I remind her that heaven is not so far and if she wants to go there, just let me know what you want her funeral to look like. Now I know this is not going to work for every situation.

For her, this takes the steam right out of her anger. I do believe there is a real chance that someday she may attempt or succeed at taking her life. Statics prove that for foster kids. But I won't let her manipulate us into fearing her death.

We know where she will be going, and we know whom she will be with. I do believe by us not fearing it, it has actually helped her to have assurances that she will be around for a long time.

She talks about having kids and being married and life after living at home. Through these conversations, we take comfort that our reverse thinking is helping her to think beyond her pain, but only time will tell.

Heaven is only one heartbeat away. I am amazed at how God holds the time and date for all of us. Only he knows the moment our hearts will start and stop.

I have had the privilege to walk with loved ones as they have passed from this world to the next. I have seen it with my own eyes and felt it so deep within my heart.

Heaven is not so far, and in the blink of an eye, we can and will stand before an amazing father, who loves us so much, because we love him, and he dwells within us.

The only thing we must be worried about in regard to heaven is to make sure that there is nothing between us and the Father. He has the rest taken care of.