LIFE LATELY | Finding Beauty in the Midst of Tragedy

              Life has been tough lately, guys!  Thanks to those of you who stopped by to check in on me, even though I was not writing much. The last time I talked about something personal was when I spent my birthday in the hospital with my father-in-law. It was shocking when we found out that he had pancreatic cancer. He started chemo right away, but the first chemo stopped working. The second chemo did more damage than good. It was hard to watch him disappear every day. What was even harder was the devastating news that he was not going to make it.
            We brought him home and cared for him until he passed away on July 24th. He was a lawyer for over 30 years back home in Haiti, but when he decided to move here in 2005, he and his wife moved into our two-bedroom apartment downstairs. He was very quiet, respectful, and very funny. His death literally brought me to my knees. He and my husband were very close. So you can understand how hard he took it. All I could do was be there for him, and tell him that it was okay to cry.

LIFE LATELY | Finding Beauty in the Midst of Tragedy

He lives on

           I learned from his death that there’s is always beauty in the midst of the ashes.  The day after my father-in-law’s passing, the kids and I saw a beautiful black and yellow butterfly outside on the flowers. When my brother-in-law and his wife came out, he told me it was the same butterfly that he saw the night my father-in-law passed away.  I found that odd because these kind of butterflies sleep at night. Mind you my father-in-law passed away at around midnight. That day the butterfly danced flew around all of us and even let my brother-in-law touch it, right after my husband came out to see it.
            My mother-in-law did not come out to see it because she had friends who had come to visit. But about an hour later, I sat outside with my mother-in-law. I looked all around while she was talking, but I did not see the butterfly. I said a quick prayer in my heart asking God to make the butterfly come back because I wanted my mother-in-law to see it. Right after saying the prayer, I looked over on the bushes and the butterfly was there. I am glad my mother-in-law was able to see it. I am glad God sent us a sign to let us know that my father-in-law is okay.

Life happens

           I also quit my job, which became very stressful after my promotion. I was very unhappy and depressed. Not being there anymore makes me feel like a totally different person, even though I did not start my new job yet. Life is short. Don’t waste it doing something that you hate, something that makes you feel sick in your stomach. Do what you love.
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Nerline Germain
Nerline Germain

I am a content writer and Amazon influencer, but I am first a wife and mother. When I am not writing, I enjoy reading a good book while having a nice glass of Merlot or Pinot close by. My goal here is to share my experiences with you. Hopefully, you will learn from my mistakes.

Find me on: Web | Twitter/X | Instagram | Facebook

15 Comments

  1. Elsie Davies
    August 31, 2017 / 2:03 am

    Condolences to you and family on the passing of your father-in-law. God always finds a way to set our minds and hearts at peace with the situation we may find ourselves in. So glad you are back and doing what you love and your husband is happy as well. You are looking beautiful dear. xo

  2. August 31, 2017 / 2:36 am

    Hugs to you, Nerline. I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your father-in-law. I pray that God gives you and your family peace and comfort during your time of grief.

    I'm happy to hear about your new job and your husband's promotion. It makes me feel good to learn that you are in good spirits. I wish you guys nothing but love and prosperity.

  3. Regine Karpel
    August 31, 2017 / 12:40 pm

    I am so sorry. I am praying for you all.

  4. Ms Sparkle And Glow
    August 31, 2017 / 4:44 pm

    so happy your back Nerline and I will keep you and your family in my prayers
    http://www.mssparkleandglow.com

  5. Pilar
    August 31, 2017 / 7:03 pm

    My condolences to you and your family. I will keep you in my prayers during this difficult time. You have the same mindset that I have, don't waste your life doing things you hate. I know there are times in life that we have to do things we dislike, but I find the things in life that I can change, I make the most of it. That's great about your husband's promotion, and good luck with your new job!

  6. August 31, 2017 / 7:18 pm

    So good to see you here. Big Hugs my Sista! You are a strong shoulder and I pray that you will always be there for us. I hope you soar in your new job and keep smiling. . .

  7. Fashionably Idu
    September 4, 2017 / 11:45 pm

    Sending loads of hugs your way my dear Nerline. I had no idea you see. I'm so sorry you've gone through all this. Sending out prayers for your family especially your mother in law. Pls stay strong and yes I do believe that the butterfly was a sign, it is well.

    http://www.fashionablyidu.com/

  8. September 5, 2017 / 12:28 am

    Nerline I am very sorry for your loss. I'm glad your family got that sign that your loved one was okay. I know exactly what you mean about work. It's great to hear that you and your husband are doing better career wise. If you think about how much time we spend at work we should not be doing something that stresses us out. Have a great week.

  9. Subha Bose
    September 5, 2017 / 9:22 am

    Sorry for your loss. It is extremely important to do what we like, looking out for more amazing post from you.

  10. Jackie Harrison
    September 5, 2017 / 10:23 am

    So sorry for your lost Nerline my condolences and I have to agree do something you love life its short

  11. Lenya
    September 5, 2017 / 4:59 pm

    Nerline I had no idea. I am so sorry for your loss and all that you had gone through lately. God works in mysterious ways and the little butterfly is just one way to show us he's there. Always. I'll keep you und your family in my thoughts.
    kisses and hugs, dear sis
    Lenya
    new look: Striped Charme

  12. Stacie Raye
    September 14, 2017 / 2:40 pm

    So sorry about your loss, sis. I know what you mean. My dad passed away a few years ago and blogging was the last thing on my mind. Take all the time you need. We'll be right here!

  13. September 28, 2017 / 2:07 pm

    The sudden passing of a loved one is always difficult any time. I pray that you all continue to celebrate and find comfort in the amazing life that your Father-in-law lived. You look amazing dear and congratulations on all the wonderful new beginnings.

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