I found out today that a new friend I recently met lost her baby. This is always a sad thing when it happens, and I have had other extremely close friends go through the same loss — but this one was different.

She was seven months pregnant.

I cannot imagine losing a baby that was so close to being born. I cannot imagine having to take back all the baby things people have given you… and the furniture you bought- the nursery you painted, no longer necessary.

My friend had to go to the hospital and actually deliver this baby, still born. The nurses encouraged her to hold him, dress him, and talk to him. She named him Phillip. Then they had a memorial/funeral service for him at church and I was told the casket was so tiny it just broke your heart.

I can't help but notice that today is overcast and dreary. Rain threatens, and there is much grieving ahead.