The earth started moving and I knew the end was near.
I was sore afraid, paralyzed almost out of so much shock and fear.
Glass began to shatter, and buildings crumbled into the streets.
And I wept alone in our room because what was was turning into what used to be.
I twirled the thin silver band on my finger, then dropped my head into my hands.
I cried and cried because...I hadn't heard from my husband.
He had been called into work at the hospital because they were so short-staffed.
He promised he'd make it up to me when he came home and as always,
we both just smiled and laughed.
Make what up to me?
The fact that he was working to keep a roof over our heads?
“No, no, no. It's fine, honey. You go right ahead.”
He called when he made it there, to tell me he was safe.
An hour and a half later came a massive earthquake.
The sky clouded gray with smoke and debris.
I envisioned my husband's cell phone ringing nonstop because I'd been calling incessantly.
No answer, no answer.
Three voice-mail messages and a text.
Aftershocks came from the quake and all I could do was wait for what was next.
God, I prayed, please don't take him from me yet.
He was mine but for a moment...but a moment I'll never forget.
Hours passed and still no word.
Then news reports flashed:
“L'hôpital s'est effondré.”
“The hospital has collapsed,” that's all I heard.
I'm sure I let out a scream to pierce the pain and extinguish the anger.
God, this is a woman that loves You! Why would You do this? Do You hate her???
I am here, My child.
The Lord spoke unto me.
It was His time to go, and now you, incline your ear unto Me.
Yes Father, speak to my heart.
He has not left you; in your womb, he left a memory...My work of art.