I RETURNED HOME FROM MY DAUGHTER’S FUNERAL TO FIND A TENT IN MY BACKYARD.
A week ago, my 8-year-old daughter, Lily, passed away from cancer. The funeral was devastating, and when I returned home, I was emotionally drained. To my shock, I found a large, colorful tent in our backyard, which felt like a cruel joke on such a painful day.
When I pulled back the tent flap, I saw a bundle wrapped in a blanket, resembling Lily’s hospital one. My heart raced as I feared the worst, but then I heard a familiar purr. It was Muffin, Lily’s favorite kitten, nestled inside with a note written in Lily’s messy handwriting: “For Mommy — So you don’t feel alone.”
Tears streamed down my face as I realized this was Lily’s final gift, a reminder of her spirit. The tent was the same one we had set up on her last good day, filled with laughter. My husband joined me, sharing in the moment, whispering that Lily wanted me to have this.
Sitting together in the tent with Muffin purring between us, I felt a glimmer of peace. Lily’s love would always be with us, sheltering us through our grief. Although she was gone, she left behind her spirit and joy, reminding me that love endures even in the hardest times.
