Stories Collected While Living in France

French la Vie

A Place in the Heart

                    The other day we had a scare at the hospital. Without a moment of hesitation I called French Husband and the children (they arrive today.) Then I went back to my Father’s room I stood by his bedside and whispered in his ear,

"Are you afraid?"

"A little."

               Img_2689

Then he started to pray (my Father says the rosary daily) I followed his lead. At the end of the rosary he said something that I had never heard before, but could tell it is how he ends his prayers. He prayed, "…when you call me home dear God make me a place in your heart."

My Father’s faith is his rock. Each time the pain, or the threat of his illness becomes overwhelming he prays for strength, for courage, for grace…

The place in the heart of God is the action of love.

Comments

76 responses to “A Place in the Heart”

  1. Kitem

    C’est beau, it is a grace from God to have faith in Him, Love is in his heart and in yours. Praying for you and your dear papa.

    Reply
  2. Miz Booshay

    Your father’s beautiful words and sentiment have brought another tear.
    He has that place, I have no doubt.
    God is near and His heart is love.

    Reply
  3. Edgar and Edgar

    Corey…
    Have faith and stay strong!!!!
    Kimberlee

    Reply
  4. Laura

    Oh, dear Corey…I am glad your husband and children are on their way. Their love and support will renew your strength.
    It is rattling to hear our parents’ fear – those who have been our steadfast rocks.
    Prayers and love from around the world are surrounding you and yours. You never cease to teach us all about life. Sometimes it hurts.

    Reply
  5. wilsonian

    To model love and grace in difficult times… there is a man of deep character!
    Still praying…
    xo

    Reply
  6. kenju

    I know having your family there will be of help to all of you. Keeping good thoughts for your dad.

    Reply
  7. Elaine

    Corey, I am glad that FH and the children will be with you today. Remember to love yourself for the beautiful woman that you are.

    Reply
  8. Dee

    Oh Corey…my heart aches for you…I will continue to pray. Blessings on your family as they travel.

    Reply
  9. My Melange

    Having your whole family there will give you support and strength Corey. I have no doubt your father has a place in God’s heart.

    Reply
  10. Teresa ~ French Poppy

    What a wonderful man your father is. My prayers are with him.
    Teresa

    Reply
  11. Lorene

    Corey,
    As I write this I have tears rolling down my face. May the grant you, your family and your Dad courage, strength and his grace.
    xoxo
    Lorene

    Reply
  12. Lorene

    Oops I missed a word. I ment to say May the Lord grant you, your family and your Father courage, strength and his grace.

    Reply
  13. Nancy

    Loving you and praying for you. I am SO glad your family is joining you to give you strength, support, love, and comfort.
    Please take care and know you are well loved and thought about.

    Reply
  14. Lynne

    It’s all we have. The Faith and Trust in God.

    Reply
  15. Toni Brown

    You just gave me a gift in sharing that – sometimes the ability to sustain faith ebbs … words like your father’s scoops it all up and pours it back into the active heart. Thank you.

    Reply
  16. JO

    I just found you through Melissas blog… the inspired room… your stories are so lovely and have both humor and heartbreak with each word… I pray that your father gains strength … his faith is amazing… and makes me smile… he must be a remarkable man
    HUGS TO YOU
    JO

    Reply
  17. Sally

    Please know you remain ever present in my thoughts Corey. I’m so glad to hear your family will soon be at your side beside your father. Wishing I could wrap you all up in my arms. Continued prayers going out.

    Reply
  18. Mental P Mama

    With prayers and light for you all. What an amazing father. It is easy to see from whence you derive your beauty and grace.

    Reply
  19. Lynda

    Dear Corey, you and your father are in my prayers daily. I’m so glad your husband and children will arrive today. May God be with you. ~ Lynda xo

    Reply
  20. Mari-Nanci

    Oh Dear One, the family arrives today. I wish your Father the continuation of his courage. He should not have a thing to fear. Not a thing.
    And my arms are around you and all of yours, though only in Cyber. My thoughts are with you.
    Many gentle hugs,
    Mari-Nanci

    Reply
  21. Renee

    One of my favorite bible verses is Psalm 91:1 He who dwells in the shelter of the most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
    Praying for shelter and rest for you and your family.
    Reneé

    Reply
  22. apt a {berriehead}

    The photo is tugging at my heart and the tears well up. It is so powerful that photo of your pa. If he goes ahead soon, he’ll blaze a clear trail for all of you to follow someday…actually he already has. Stay strong & may God’s good grace cradle all of you during this time & always. Love you!

    Reply
  23. Alice

    Corey…I’m so glad to hear that hubby and family arrive today. You need their added strength. I love your father’s words, deeply meaningful. He sounds like he is the most kindest and gentle of men. Keep strong and remember that you, your family and especially your father are in my heart and prayers.

    Reply
  24. Paris Parfait

    Your post brought tears to my eyes. Am so glad all of your family will be there soon. What a very special man your father is! No doubt, his faith will be rewarded. You are all in my prayers. xo

    Reply
  25. Alina

    A prayer beautiful and humble much like the man who said it.

    Reply
  26. gretchen

    I can barely type through the tears welling in my eyes- the photo of your father is so precious- then I read your words and the tears spilled onto my cheeks. I keep you all in my prayers and in my heart.

    Reply
  27. Sugar

    My thoughts are with you all.

    Reply
  28. Julie

    Oh to have a faith that strong. I am crying from the enormity of such a post. You have been in my prayers for days. I hope some day my faith is even close to what your fathers is.

    Reply
  29. Ulla

    Oh Corey, I am wrapping you in my heart… Stay strong and have faith… Love you.

    Reply
  30. qualcosa di bello

    what a beautiful prayer to end his rosary…i will remember him (& you & yours) in mine today

    Reply
  31. ladyhead (julie’s friend)

    i am thinking of you corey.

    Reply
  32. Maura

    Corey, I’m still standing with you in prayers, faith & love. Reading the comments I see you have a wonderful community of friends in Cyberville; from your posts for the last years I know your real life is rich in love and lasting relationships.
    These days….all these minutes and hours which are relentlessly marching on…this is a holy, sacred time. But you know this. I’m going into the little chapel to light another candle for your dearest papa, you, and all those around you.

    Reply
  33. Karen Eropkin

    This is a precious time for you Cory. What more of a beautiful gift can a parent give to a child than the gift of faith in a loving and compassionate God. It is a legacy that is eternal. Continuing to pray for your family for strength and courage. -Karen from California

    Reply
  34. Bill ~ Loving Her Beautiful

    Hello, Corey,
    We are sitting beside you all in prayer and our hearts are with you. My own father’s health is slowly declining, and even at my 43 years of age, I’m reminded of hearing someone say, “You never outgrow your dad.” Clearly you also have very special memories and a treasured relationship with your own father. It’s a blessing for all of us to see it.
    BILL

    Reply
  35. the farmers wife

    I believe faith is very important in our lives and in our societies. We need to believe in something or you end up believing in nothing. I am very glad your family is arriving today and you’ll have their support in this difficult time.

    Reply
  36. Jenny

    Fat tears. I feel your love/pain for your daddy in my chest dear Corey. We are all scared little girls with you…we need our daddy. No other love compares to that love..my daddy will be 84 in August. He is slipping away from me too. What will I do without him I ask?
    There is a proverb in the old testament that says a father gives his daughter a lamp to wear around her neck…to light the night and the way. Your father gave you a bright lamp. xxxooo

    Reply
  37. Lisa Oceandreamer

    What an extraordinary man!
    I want to say so much but I will only say I have you wrapped in the pocket of my heart.
    XOXO
    Love,
    Lisa

    Reply
  38. Jenny

    Keep your father’s principle, my daughter,
    Bind them ever to your heart,
    tie them round your neck.
    When you walk, these will guide you,
    when you lie down, watch over you,
    when you wake, talk with you.
    For this principle is a lamp,
    this teaching is a light; PROVERBS 6:20-23
    Holding your daddy and you and all in my heart. The candle is lit.

    Reply
  39. Hasmin

    I’m overcome with emotion as I’m reading this today, my tears are running down my face…Corey, I’m so jealous that you have a chance to be with your Dad, be there for him, and talk to him. I never had a chance to talk to my Dad before he passed away.
    Sending prayers and a big hug to you Mr Amaro.

    Reply
  40. happycalm

    My prayers and love go to you, Corey, and your Dad and family. When I close my eyes and think of you, I see beauty and hopefulness. I pray that you are all comforted by the Holy Spirit as you travel through this fearful time. You are a blessing to us all.
    Chris in Vallejo, CA

    Reply
  41. rochambeau

    He Has my prayers through my tears too!
    God Bless G.
    with love,
    C

    Reply
  42. Sandy

    God Bless your dad & your family.
    Tears in my eyes, Sandy

    Reply
  43. Star

    What a beautiful way to end a prayer. Safe journeys for Yann, Sacha and Chelsea.

    Reply
  44. Sher

    The Greatest Gift…Love…

    Reply
  45. Carolyn

    I’m holding you all tightly. Have faith, be strong. Much love and many prayers.
    Safe travel for your family dear Corey.

    Reply
  46. Candy

    There is nothing more precious than a man’s prayers from his heart. Your father is a very blessed man. He is so very loved. I know with everything in me that God has just such a place in His heart for your dad. I pray for peace for your mom and you and the rest of your family. You are also loved my friend.

    Reply
  47. danasmith

    Corey……I’ve been where you are and I’m keeping all of your family in my heart and prayers. Parents are our true link to our past…only they knew us when and the thought of losing that beautiful link is almost too much to bare.
    Dana

    Reply
  48. Ria

    Still holding you and your family in my thoughts and prayers as always Corey.
    xxxxx

    Reply
  49. Miss Sandy

    Corey,
    My love in action for you is prayer, continuing to uplift you and your family.

    Reply
  50. herhimnbryn

    My Dear One,
    I have few words at this time, but I think of you all. Hold hands with those you love.

    Reply
  51. tut-tut

    Oh, faith is the handhold. I’m praying for you.

    Reply
  52. Janet

    That is beautiful.
    I’m glad your immediate family is near.
    Praying.

    Reply
  53. michele

    you are a special women from a special man!
    may love & peace be with you…

    Reply
  54. Sheila

    Yout father’s faith will sustain him, and you. I imagine by now FH and your children have arrived to be with you, you are all in my thoughts today.
    (((hugs)))
    xx

    Reply
  55. Colette

    My dear Corey, you, your maman, and all your family are in my thoughts daily.

    Reply
  56. Katy

    When my dear mother was in the throes of dementia, I found her one evening trying to leave her bed. All she would say was “over there . . .over there”. I’ve often wished I could have seen what she saw “over there”. You are a wonderful daughter of wonderful parents. You are blessed.

    Reply
  57. tinker

    Though I’m sad that you all had a scare, I’m glad that you will have French husband and family by your side. Praying for blessings for you all~big ((HUGS))

    Reply
  58. Loretta

    Dear Corey,
    I will never forget you taking my daughter’s name on a rose petal to Lourdes. I will continue to pray for your Dad and for you and your family. I’m so glad your husband and kids are flying in to be at your side.
    May the Lord bless and protect you all and bring your family strength and your father courage and healing.

    Reply
  59. Beachy

    What an incredibly strong man your dear father is, Corey. How beautiful that you made this new discovery when listening to him pray! It’s as if you were a little girl again, listening and learning how to pray with your father. =) Much love and prayers to you, your father and your family!

    Reply
  60. Ciretta

    I am so glad your children and husband will be with you soon— I was afraid to tell you my experience and thereby create a negative thought. You are all in thought and prayer.

    Reply
  61. Elizabeth

    Ohhhhhhhhhhh, Corey! I am glad your family are on their way to join you. You are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this!
    Elizabeth

    Reply
  62. Tammy

    oh what a faith your father has. I am so glad your hubby and children will be with you. I continue to pray for each of you and know that God’s arms are holding you each moment.
    blessings

    Reply
  63. Bethany

    Sending love and praying for comfort and strength for you Corey …I do know that the Lord is holding your Father in His mighty hand and is keeping him safe and bringing him comfort and peace…I’m so glad your family will be coming soon.

    Reply
  64. nancy

    all of my love to you and your family. i’m there with you corey.
    love nancy

    Reply
  65. Cindy

    May the GOD of all comfort, hold your precious Father very near to His heart during this difficult time ~
    “I love the LORD, for He heard my voice,
    He heard my cry for mercy.
    Because He turned His ear to me,
    I will call on Him as long as I live.”
    ~Psalm 116:1-2
    “Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust.”
    ~Psalm 40:4
    “To You, O LORD, I lift up my soul;
    In You I trust, O my GOD…
    No one whose hope is in You will ever be put to shame.”
    ~Psalm 25:1-3
    GOD bless you dear Cory. Along with so many others, I am praying for you and your family.
    Love,
    Cindy

    Reply
  66. A Circle of Quiet

    Corey,
    I found your spot from Donna at Quiet Life, and have enjoyed reading your archives and seeing your piece in Victoria.
    I wanted you to know I will pray for you and your family. Your father’s faith is a blessing to me; may he have peace as he heals. And may the loving presence of your husband and children bring you all you need.
    Warmly,
    Diane

    Reply
  67. Betty @ She’s Sew Pretty

    dear sweet corey,
    I have been having my own share of “scares” with my mother. I am praying that she will come home soon and be fine. She just had her second hip fracture, with an apparent heart attack and when the pain in great she grits her teeth and prays to Mary. Bless you and your family. I could not do this without mine. Hugs and Prayers for strength for you, your family and your father.

    Reply
  68. Mary

    Having Yann and the children with you will be such a blessing at this difficult time. I can picture you all together, sharing your love at your Father’s side. This will make him stronger.
    This photo is wonderful Corey – I feel his interest for the bikes even without seeing his expression!
    Love and prayers continue – today I especially thought of your lovely Mother and I’m glad you are there for her too.

    Reply
  69. blueVicar

    Oh, dear Corey. We’re here for you…all around the world. May God’s peace be with you all.
    Meilleurs voeux!!

    Reply
  70. Elaine L.

    I have to say that when you asked your father if he were afraid and he said, “a little”, it brought tears to my eyes. This is as close as I have been to my dad during the last year. Trying to spare my mother, I have spent more time beside my dad in doctor’s offices,the hospital, and the emergency room.
    “he prays for strength, for courage, for grace…”
    I have prayed these words myself, many times.
    I’m so happy that FH and children are arriving to be with you.
    ~elaine~

    Reply
  71. susanna

    This is a good photograph, Corey. Your dad’s greatest achievement is no doubt his family. It’s so great that you all have this bike trip together.
    I’ll send up a prayer for your dad today.

    Reply
  72. eb

    a place in his Heart…
    xox – eb.

    Reply
  73. Heather W.

    This Post brought tears to my eyes! May we all find a place in Gods heart when it is our time to go home! This was just precious to me! Thank you for sharing this piece of life. Just beautilful!

    Reply
  74. Julia

    What a lovely, remarkable prayer. May God’s peace continue to dwell in your father’s heart as he seeks strength from above. Wishing and praying you the best.

    Reply
  75. amber

    Yes. What a blessing his faith is to him. I wish everyone had it to fall back on like that. If only they knew the peace it can bring…
    Holding you all in prayer.
    🙂

    Reply
  76. Lori Witzel

    Well, the close of his prayer just knocked me out. I teared up, it was so very beautiful — humility and grace and trust in Love.
    Your posts on your dad’s health, and your responses, feelings and perceptions, have been an awesome gift.
    Thank you.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Policy - Terms and Conditions