The Significance of “Celebration of Life”

Today, September 27th, marks 4 months since the passing of my sweet UniqWarrior, Jahmya. Four months without her presence, her smile, her touch and yet, I continue to show up.

This morning, I attended a Homegoing Celebration of Life for another UniqWarrior. It was truly beautiful. The sanctuary was filled with love and reverence, a reflection of a life well-lived and deeply loved, although cut so short. Then came a praise dance to Gracefully Broken by Tasha Cobbs, and Lord, when I tell you, my heart was stirred. Every step and every motion seemed to echo my own story while grace hold me together even as grief tries to pull me apart. Yes, I am gracefully broken, yet still standing.

Children with uniqabilities have a way of showing us the purest form of strength. Though so innocent and young, they carry a resilience that humbles even the strongest of us. Their lives, no matter how long or short, leave marks on this world that time cannot erase. They remind us of the beauty in simplicity, the courage in vulnerability, and the power of unconditional love.

But God wasn’t done with me today. In the very same afternoon, I had the honor to witness another celebration of life the baby shower of my best friend of 27 years. Together, we celebrated her rainbow baby girl, Ryelle, soon to make her entrance into this world.

The same day that began with the sacred farewell of one angel ended with the joyful anticipation of another life about to unfold. The morning reminded me of the brevity and fragility of life, while the afternoon reminded me of its promise and resilience. Although I lost my 1st born baby girl, God has now blessed me with the honor of becoming a Godmother to this miracle child on her way.

Today held sooooooooo much power about life. It showed me that life is both fragile and miraculous, heartbreaking and breathtaking. It taught me that grief and joy are not enemies but companions often walking hand in hand, reminding us that love never dies, it only transforms.

And yet, through it all, I am reminded of the Word: “In all things give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). How can you give thanks when you’re broken? How can you give thanks when your heart aches daily? I don’t always know but yet and still, I do. I give thanks for Jahmya’s life. I give thanks for the strength to keep showing up in various rooms and settings for others. I give thanks for the blessing of new life, for the miracle of becoming a Godmother yet again, and for the ways God continues to meet me in my brokenness.

7/30/2010 - 5/27/2025

Jahmya’s life continues to teach me that showing up matters. That even in my brokenness, beauty can still be found. That God’s timing, though often beyond my understanding, is always filled with purpose.

Today, I celebrate. Today, I honor. Today, I remember.

Because life in all its forms is still worth showing up for.