Heavenly Sleep

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"I can't sleep," Anna whispered, staring at the ceiling. Her husband, John, lay beside her, oblivious to her unrest. His snores harmonized with the drool sliding down his chin, soaking the pillow.

Despite taking her sleeping pills, showering and scrolling through her phone, Anna's mind refused to calm. Restlessness propelled her out of bed. She padded to the kitchen, seeking solace in midnight snacks.

Munching on crackers and cheese, Anna continued watching videos on her phone. Time ticked by, but sleep evaded her.

Desperation crept in. She dialed her mom's number, hoping against hope that she'd answer. Three hours away, her mom, Margaret, wasn't an early riser.

The phone rang twice before Margaret's raspy, sleep-filled voice answered. "Hello?"

"Mom, I'm so sorry to wake you," Anna apologized.

Margaret's tone softened. "Baby, what's wrong?"

"I just can't sleep, Mom. I've tried everything."

Margaret's response was immediate. "Let me pray for you."

Anna closed her eyes as her mom's soothing voice poured through the line:

"Dear Heavenly Father, please calm Anna's mind and body. Grant her peaceful rest. Let your love envelop her, chasing away worries and fears. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Tears of gratitude streamed down Anna's face. She returned to bed, snuggling beneath the covers. As she drifted off, sleep's gentle embrace wrapped around her.

In that serene moment, Anna felt blessed to have a praying mother. Her eyelids fluttered shut, and she smiled, knowing she wasn't alone.

The darkness faded, replaced by dreams, and Anna slept, cradled in her mother's love and prayers.