Goodbye Sweet Amanda

This post is dedicated in loving memory of Amanda Sanders. I did not know Amanda very well. I met her and her sister several years ago when they came into my little shop and brightened my day. Maybe part of it was because of the special relationship between the two and I was missing my sister (who is my best friend) and lives so far away. Anyway I was immediately drawn to them and loved their visits every month or so. A few years later Amanda was in the store by herself and we began talking. She told me of her rare cancer diagnosis - she was already going through treatments and had not even told her professors at college. She was determined to finish her teaching degree. She was amazingly positive and very grounded in her beautiful faith. I immediately began praying for her and every time I saw her and/or her sister, Sheila they were always quick to praise God for what he was doing in their lives. Amanda finished her teaching degree and got a job teaching elementary children. Since I had closed the store I did not see them much any more but was aware of God's spirit urging me to pray for her at different times. I know that Amanda made a big impact on me and I can only image how many others. She and Sheila were active in the relay for life team at the school Amanda taught. I also know that many of the scrapbook/card supplies they were buying were used to make cards at church to encourage others!! As we say goodbye to an amazing 25 year old young woman I have no doubt that Jesus is welcoming her into his arms and telling her "Well Done My Good and Faithful Servant"!!