A Heart Traced in Sand






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From Naomi's Journals

1992, age 12 I wish I could dream I was flying and feel how it felt. I always thought it would be neat, but I've never had a flying dream that I can remember! Maybe someday I will; who knows?

1997, age 17 Hardship is something that will make us stronger. I don't know if I have complete evidence of this, but I think that in every situation there is good in it.

1997, age 17 I was thinking of death today. It is not death I fear, it is losing life and people . . .

1997, age 17 I want God to know that my life is in His hands and I know this. If He decides it is my time to leave, well then that is His choice. What I want God to know is that I truly love this earth and can't wait to learn more as I go on to college and live my life.

1998, age 18 I love this life and want to be here for as long as God allows. I trust that God knows my love for life and the happiness it gives me.

1998, age 18 Life is so beautiful, I cherish it and want to be able to see every part of it. I know that I will because I am healing now.

1998, age 18 Dear God, you are the God of miracles, miracles of healing, provision and salvation. Though I have the faith of a little child, I know that you have authority over cancer. I know that you will heal me. Lord, I pray that I will recover and enjoy a healthy life both in body and soul so that I can continue to serve you with great vigor and enthusiasm. And Lord, please give me wisdom, coupled with the miraculous healing you are granting today, so that I will know how to maintain my new found health.

1999, age 19 Show up and be lovingly present, no matter what it looks like out there or inside yourself. Always speak the truth of your heart.

Spoken words in the last days—

Eight days before Naomi died: "Dad, there are so many things I want to do. I want to have a boyfriend and get married. I want to see Sarah get married. I want to go to college and make new friends."

Two days before Naomi died: "I love my body, it has been so good to me . . ."

The last words Naomi uttered: "God, God, God."

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