Happy Birthday! We love you!

Tomorrow, July 19th is Madeline's 16th birthday. As we wade through a whole new set of emotions and grief we can't help but ask the question, "What do you want for your birthday?" For most 16 year old girls it would probably be something along the lines of clothes, mp3 player, cell phone, drivers license, boyfriend or a car.
In Madey's case we thought there might be something more substantial that we could offer. Since we often take time to remember her and all that she taught us during her short life on earth, we couldn't help but think of all the times people have shared with us experiences when Madeline did something that made a difference in their lives. We have had some tell us that it was her smile, her kind hello, her welcoming personality, her faithful friendship, her desire for the underdog to come out on top, or her beautiful singing voice, or her contagious laugh that made the difference for them. Whatever it may have been, for Madeline's birthday we are asking for everyone to give Madey the present of being a difference maker. I guess what that means to us, is to look for an opportunity to make a difference for someone on Tuesday, July 19th. It doesn't have to be a grand or glorious act, most of what Madey did was simple, yet genuine. It could be something seemingly insignificant like opening a door for someone, sharing a kind word, sending a thank you note, sitting with the lonely, or any number of things. Whatever you decide to do whether it seems small to you or not, could be the difference maker for someone else. It might be the very thing that lifts their spirits or puts a smile on an otherwise unhappy face. And if you want to whisper a little 'happy birthday' to Madey when your done I think she would like it.
We feel like we have been the recipients of a lot of kindness, love, faith and prayers. And as we continue to find our way we know the Lord is with us.

Thanks Again for your continued faith, prayers, love, and kindness.

The Slaughters