Just For Today . . .For Matthew Charles Arensman . . .1/6/09

Dear Holy Friends,     I have cried some heavy tears this morning. My cousin Ruth, gave birth to their ninth child last night. They knew he would not survive. Matthew Charles Arensman had Trisomy 9. That is a chromosomal disorder in which the entire 9th chromosome appears three times rather twice in some cells of the body. In the weeks that have passed since Todd and Ruth received confirmation of the diagnosis, their witness to the sanctity of all human life and to God's ultimate perfection in purpose has been a blessing to all around them. When I grow up, I'd like to be like my younger cousin, Ruthie. Now, they must deal with mourning while the rest of the world goes on as normal.   This poem is for Todd and Ruth, and Zach,, Allison, Emily, Katie, Hannah, James, Jon, and Nathan.     For Matthew Charles Arensman   flower blooms through a crack in the cement crocus peeks through the winter snow rainbow colors a stormy sky foxfire fungus at nighttime glows butterflies exit gray cocoons new buds from winter trees wilted plants revive with water sweet honey made by buzzing bees a seed must die and be buried first before it can grow tall faith that is strong and huge began from something so small a baby is born and dies so hard to understand but for one instant in time he held his Daddy's hand somewhere in these moments Little Matthew touched many hearts one small life given its chance God's mercy never departs one day we'll meet again this little boy that blessed our souls for now He rests with Jesus the Saver of our souls.   ~Chandra Lynn Smith, 1/6/09~   My grandfather's name was  the same as Matthew's middle name, Charles. Somehow, I believe Granny and Granddaddy walked hand in hand to meet little Matthew and welcome him home last night.

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