There’s something sacred about walking through the greenhouse. I’m drawn to the flowers—the way they burst with color, the way their fragrance hangs in the air like a hymn. Each bloom seems to whisper a story, and together they live in perfect harmony. To me, it feels like a glimpse of the Garden… a reflection of Heaven itself.
In 2003, after I suffered a severe burn injury, doctors made a bold and risky decision to change my ventilator in an effort to save my life. The procedure was dangerous, and yet, it led to the most profound moment of my life. On that very day—yesterday, marking the anniversary—something beyond explanation happened: my soul left my earthly body.
I remember ascending—peacefully, gently—carried through the clouds by angels. And then, I stood in Heaven. I was face to face, hand in hand, with my Savior. It felt more real than anything I’ve known on this earth. I know some may doubt stories like mine. They may call it a dream, or a side effect of trauma. But I know in the deepest part of my soul—it was real. I was with Him.
Jesus told me it wasn’t my time. That I still had purpose. That the world still needed me. I didn’t want to leave. I was broken, afraid, and exhausted from the pain I had endured. I argued with Him—I wanted to stay in the peace, in the presence of His love. But He looked at me with compassion and gave me a promise to carry back.
When I returned, something strange and tender lingered in me. I was afraid of men with beards—for a time—because that’s how I had seen Jesus. Even my own father had to shave his beard so I could feel safe again. Later, when I saw the film Heaven Is for Real and watched the little girl’s painting at the end—my heart stopped. That was Him. The same face I had seen. The same eyes. I was in awe. It was another confirmation of the truth I carry.
Now, every time I walk the greenhouse, I’m reminded of Heaven—not just its beauty, but its promise. The greenhouse has become my sanctuary. It’s where I see God’s message over and over again: we can bloom again. We can grow through brokenness. We can heal in unexpected places and unexpected ways.
God is using this space to remind me of His presence, His purpose, and His relentless love. And for that, I am forever grateful.
