THE MORAL OF THE STORY:

“There’s a comfort that can’t be found anywhere else but in a touch or a hug. Somehow, God’s love and power is shared with others through the simplicity of our physical touch.”

“S>ometimes I miss my mommy so much my body hurts and I think I’m going to cry,” said Mary, our 4-year-old granddaughter. “Oh, sweetheart, I know just how that feels,” I said as I held her close. “What do you do for me when you hear me talk about how much I miss your Aunt Amy?”

She looked at me with her big brown eyes and sweetly said, “I hug you.”

“You’re right; you give me an extra special hug, and it always helps me. Can I give you one of those hugs right now?” I asked.

Mary smiled, nodded and we cuddled for a bit and, soon she was ready for breakfast.

Mary and her 2-½-year-old sister Aubrey spent several days with my husband and me while their parents were out of town. We heard them wake up and chat happily while gathering dolls and sippy cups before running down the hall and climbing into bed with us. Soon after Mary was snugly situated next to me, she told me how she felt.

I thought her explanation was profound, and I related to it. She was having fun with her sister and was happy being with us, but she also missed her mommy deeply.

We just passed the one-year anniversary of the car accident our daughter Amy didn’t survive. I relate to Mary’s comment because I have wonderful joys in life, but sometimes I also miss Amy so much my body hurts. We have so appreciated and needed the love, prayers, cards, calls and encouragement this past year. The hugs, especially, feel like special hugs from God.

And you can quote me on that.

CINDY TRANE CHRISTESON is a Newport Beach resident who speaks frequently to parenting groups. She may be reached at cindy@onthegrow.com or 537 Newport Center Drive, Box 505, Newport Beach, CA 92660.