So valuable is the dignity of the human soul, that every member of the human race has a guardian from the moment the person is born." - Saint Jerome
At first glance, one would think the above painting is an artist's hope that guardian angels exist and guide our children. What if I told you it illustrates an actual event to the smallest detail?
Twelve years ago an old friend tracked me down after coming across a lithograph of mine. In it angels were pictured playing in the clouds, blowing stars to one another. Even though the signature on the piece was different from when I was in high school, Clare recognized my art and felt compelled to find me. She thought anyone who can paint angels like I do, must believe in them. After meeting for coffee, she confided the event that made her search me out. Two years earlier she had stood in court looking on as her ex-husband was sentenced for sexually abusing her daughter. What had taken place shook her family to its core. In the depths of their despair, an angel came to little Emma and helped her come to terms with what had happened. The angelic presence not only healed her but healed her mother and siblings too.
The events with her stepfather left Emma in deep emotional pain. She had loved him dearly and even called him dad. How could he betray her like this? How could she miss someone who had hurt her so much? One night, as she neared her breaking point, she climbed out of bed to get a tissue to dry her tears. When she returned, sitting next to her bed was a woman with wings and light radiating around her. She introduced herself as Sarah. She told Emma she was there to help. She knew that Emma missed her stepfather but promised her everything would be alright. The heavenly being assured her that she had done the right thing by revealing her secret to her mother. That was the beginning of an extraordinary relationship. Emma's guardian angel stayed by her side during the process of pressing charges against her abuser. She always knew exactly what Emma needed to hear to soothe her.
As Clare and I rekindled our friendship, of course, I pondered the hugeness of her story. I wanted to believe her. Who wouldn't want the comfort of knowing that our children are watched over when we can't protect them? After meeting her kids, I was convinced something incredible had indeed taken place. I came to believe my friend's daughter had been given a gift, through a tangible presence that had found her shattered and left her whole.
As time went on, Emma's angel began to fade into the background but never entirely left. Today all grown up and a mother herself, she continues to be one of the most well-adjusted young ladies I've ever met. It's impossible not to feel a remnant of the celestial when in her presence. Until now, her encounter with Sarah has only been disclosed to a trusted few. The way I see it, Emma's gift is a healing balm that should be shared with the world. Her mother agrees and is now expanding her journals about her daughter's experience into a book. As a parent, I feel privileged to have been able to tuck Emma's visitation in my heart all these years. It's been such a source of comfort to me while watching my children scale some very rocky terrain. In lyrics penned by Van Morrison we are assured, "You know the obstacles along the way, sometimes might feel so tremendous. There are guides and spirits all along the way, who will befriend us." Our loved ones are watched over and cared for even when we can't be with them. Just knowing that helps me sleep better at night.
The above image, Dream Catchers, is what Clare came across and compelled her to find me.
So what about you? I would love to hear any experiences you've had with the angelic.
*The names were changed in the post to protect the privacy of all involved.
All text and images © Sue Shanahan. All rights reserved.
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