HELPING THROUGH THE GRIEF - Page 41


"Strengthen me by sympathizing with my strength not my weakness."
Amos Bronson Alcott


November 18, 2010

I wrote this in memory and in keeping memory of my Uncle Peter.
Born July 2, 1969
Died September 25, 1999


Days go by, we know the sacrifices we pay.
I'm so glad I found you because I was absolutely lost without you.
Every day you put your warm hands
Around my tiny body, when I'm crying
And every day I ask you to say you will always love me
Till the day I die.

Written in 2010 by Rose Logan --- Australia

Grieving is hard, everyone has different ways of coping with that but you can't really understand where people are coming from unless someone really close or something really close has gone. Everyone will share the pain but not the same pain as you might feel.

Year by year you still grieve but it's less painful than it was previously. You will never forget them, even though sometimes you just wish you could. They will always be on the back of your mind no matter what, just lurking around like a number.

Remember this: the people you have lost will always be near you. Just look up at the sky one night and see all those big bright shiny stars? Pick one and use it as a memory - pretend it's them. You will feel much more relaxed and grieving will be much easier.


November 18, 2010

"When it seems you have lost the battle of life, when you feel deserted even among your loved ones, when all you strength and determination seems to fly away in the Horizon, in just one dolt; when you repent over the loss of your most precious gifts in life, through no fault of yours, remember one thing; nothing is constant and permanent in this world. Neither time nor life, neither solution nor problems, neither precaution nor cure, neither success nor failure.

The thing you feel you have lost, was never yours, be it materialistic or a treasured relation, job or a person. You acquired it in the process of fighting the battle of time. Remember, you lose only when you possess it in the first place. It is you who achieved success in all the fronts of life. If you can do it once, you can do it again.

Do not lose hope. Have faith and belief in yourself. Every human is born with a purpose in life. Think positive. One day these positive vibrations will attract and attach new strings in your life. These strings will create and bring the harmony and music in your faded life. Your life will become a musical note once again."

Copyright © 2010 Ratnesh Shukla
When I was suffering over the loss of my beloved and job, both at the same period, I wrote it to enlighten others that tough times never last but tough people do.


November 18, 2010

"When you know that God has forgiven you, forgive yourself too."

Written in 2010 by Jenirose Sulit --- Philippines


November 18, 2010

I wrote this for my sister, after one of our very close friends passed away after his struggle with cancer. He passed after complications unrelated to his cancer were too much for his body to handle. We were all very devastated to lose such an amazing person at such a young age.

He and my sister shared a very special bond that could be witnessed by all around but only truly understood and comprehended by them. During this time I felt the need to comfort my little sister, as every older sibling will, so I wrote and shared with her these words.

I'd like to share with anyone else going through the pain and sorrow of losing a loved one this piece, in hopes to help them find comfort in this difficult time. May God bless you all and be with you in your time of grief.


Heaven Only Knows

He takes our loved ones from us,
We know not the reasons why.
We can only comprehend the sorrows in our hearts
From the moment their souls bless the sky.

He picks them like flowers from a field,
Some prepared for his presence,
Some without a chance to yield.
He'll choose them and leave alone the others.

It doesn't matter if the ones he chose
Are someone's Brothers, Sisters, best friends or Mothers.
But somehow, when reminiscing, after all the tears are cried,
We remember all the reasons we loved them,
And know with all our hearts
,Why God himself would want them by his side.

Copyright © 2007 Nicole Sweeney


November 18, 2010

ABC Of Enlightenment: DEATH

"Only a few people die blissfully. And when death becomes a bliss, it is a samadhi. When death is a relaxation... real relaxation, deep inside you surrender, you welcome. You have known life, now you want to know death also. You have lived life, you have enjoyed it. A great trust has arisen in you about life --- and you know death is the culmination of life, the crescendo. It must be beautiful! When the whole journey has been beautiful, why not the goal? There is no reason to be afraid. When the whole journey has been such a tremendous joy, why not the end? It is the culmination. You have come home. You welcome, you are ready to embrace death. You relax; you simply slip into death."

Osho
Submitted by Narayan Veeraraghavachar --- India


November 18, 2010

"Not so long, life will be back to normal, only if we trust in god and believe in our action. There are always possibilities, just open your eyes to see them. They do exist; one of them is optimistic."

Written in 2010 by Emmanuel Mabaso ---South Africa
I've experienced this and advised my friends. It worked for us.


November 18, 2010

"Love who you love, try your best and give them your all...because you will never truly know how much they meant to you until there gone forever. So if you get a chance, TAKE IT, don't be afraid about the outcome that might be waiting."

Author Unknown
Submitted by Raven B. --- Louisiana
I chose this one because it really happened to me. I didn't give somebody all my love, like I wanted to, because I was to young. And now that I'm older and can, he's gone forever. He died.


November 18, 2010

I am a Funeral Director in Greensboro, NC, and dealing with death everyday causes me to reflect on the grief of the family and the afterlife of the deceased. I wrote the first short poem in just about two minutes. I believe in God and I believe He gave it to me. It came to me as I was preparing for a funeral of an 18 year old who committed suicide. This poem was used on the family's bookmark, which we use in our visitation and funeral services.The second came a few days later as I reflected on the first poem.

Remember Me


Remember Me As I Was,
A Young Beautiful Girl Full Of Life,

Who Loved Everyone, Especially My Family And Friends.

Forget Not My Love For You.
When You Think Of Me, Think Of That Love.



Remember Me As I Was


Please forget not the days
When we loved and played.
Remember those cherished ways
When we together on the bed laid.

Today and forever, forget not my love.
But as you grieve for me
Remember the wings of the dove,
How they are so light and free.

So is my spirit, even as you grieve.
No more pain, trials or sickness.
Now in Him, I'm complete and free;
Think of happy times not ones of sadness.

Just remember me as I was,
One who loved, and lived.
Strong and faithful I was,
Everyday love I strived to give.

So remember me as I was!


November 18, 2010

"Where do we find GOD? GOD is not hard to find. Look around, he is watching over us, protecting us. If we open our eyes we will find him in the face of our parents, the face of our loved ones, our children, our husbands, wives, our family and friends; in the trees that grow, the flowers that bloom, the birds that sing. GOD is always there!"

Copyright © 2010 Bill Simon
I wrote this while thinking about my beloved wife who passed away on January 19, 2010.


November 18, 2010

Mike, I don't know what to do,
I don't know what to say.
I do know I need you here, with me night and day.

I close my eyes at night... and guess what I see?
I see your big, bright smile shining down on me.
I know you're here with me for now and forevermore,
But still I ask myself: God, what did you take him for?

I can't quit thinking of you;
I think I'm going insane.
I wish you were here with me,
I know you could ease my pain.

I must keep saying to myself:
You're in God's arms now,
And I know in my heart I'll see you someday, somehow.

I'm going to miss you, with each passing day.
I feel you with me and you can hear me say:
I miss you, I love you, I want you here.
I need you, I see you, I feel a tear.

I don't know if I'm done, there's so much more I feel.
I guess I better close this now, it's breaking up my heart.
I know you'll always be inside of me, and we will never part.

I'll remember everything about you, as the tears flood my sight...
But I'll mostly remember the good times,
So I'll see you again when we reunite.

Be Missing You

Written in 2010 by Caroline N., Australia
In September 2009, my boyfriend (who was 17) crashed his car because he wanted to show the other brothers a few dangerous tricks without any expectation he was going to end up wrapped around a pole harder than a wall of brick. He was my life, my soul and all the grieving took its toll. He was my best friend, especially after he helped me through tough times, when my brother died in 2006 after crashing his car. His name was also Mike, and then in January 2009, my best friend was killed when her boyfriend crashed his car. He was there for me through the good and the bad, and I miss my baby boy. I had known him since kindy, and we were going out for 10 months. I will always hold him dear and I pledge to him a hallowed place within my heart where he will always stay. I love my Mike.T. and will never forget you and the memories we had.


November 18, 2010

On June 8th 2009, I lost my Father, but not only my father, my friend, my mentor and the only man I ever truly loved.

I was devastated; Dad was gay and had brought me up the best he knew how. I was a stable and loved child that never wanted for anything... materialistic, spiritual or other. Dad was a wonderful Guide and cherished our relationship.

When my father passed away, his partner Edwin and I stayed by his bedside. We chose together how the story of our lives would end; it was truly the saddest day of my life... I thought...

Then once Dad was gone, the matters of his estate caused problems and I walked away after 38 years with not even a photo of either My Dad or his partner Ed. I was totally isolated, lost, and out of control... until I saw a side of me that what not healthy or productive. After a near death suicide attempt, I sought help in spiritual sites, family and my own belief in my motivation to live.

I am truly an example of a sad story turned happy - a story of how your own motivation and those on the other side can boost you into living a normal happy life. I am a believer, I believe in everything and everyone. And even if I don't, I still do. This shows and teaches strength and learning.

Don't ever give in... MOVE UP and Move On. Believe me, those that have passed are still there to guide us.

Written in 2010 by Bec


November 18, 2010

"No matter how much I invest in each day, every morning I wake up broke."

Written in 2009 by C.S. --- United Kingdom
I lost my son in 2007 after a year of illness and suffering. The pain is so great but because of him I am a strong woman who can survive each day knowing that he is still near.


November 18, 2010

To Dewayne

Christmas 2007


You left us way too soon, Son,
It never should have been.
But knowing how you like to talk,
I know you've found a Friend.

Now the season is upon us
To tell loved ones far and near,
Just how much they mean to us,
And why we hold them dear.

So while we're on the subject
Your Friend needs to know
How we feel about His season
And why our houses glow.

So tell Jesus Happy Birthday, Son,
While you celebrate His birth,
And tell him you are truly missed
By your family here on earth.

With love from Mom

Copyright © 2007 Carol Cleckler
I wrote this poem in 2007, 8 years after my 27 year old son died.
I dedicate it to him with this submission.


November 18, 2010

"If we meet not on this Hell 'Earth', we will still be together; as our love shall burn as blessings in the eternity ring and our love to a knot tied, that even time cannot untie it."

Copyright © 1999 Ratnesh Shukla
I was completely shattered when my girlfriend got married to someone else. It was a mutual decision taken by both of us. We both were pursuing our graduation and suddenly one day I heard that her parents want her to get married. I was not employed. Hence, it was not possible to marry. I could have ruined two lives by simply tying the knot.

Mere love is not enough to live life together. Love alone cannot fill your empty stomach when one is hungry. I asked her to wait till we graduated. We both loved each other very much. She could have waited forever but not her parents. She gave me a stupid idea to commit suicide. I personally believe this is completely foolish. So, we neither eloped nor committed suicide. We sacrificed our love for each other. It was then that I wrote this small quotation dedicating it to our love. I presented her the quote crafted in a square piece of wood. Love never dies.


November 18, 2010

"If you ever feel like you are hanging on a thread or maybe clinging on an edge, just let GOD and let go."

Written in 2010 by Roy Dela Calzada --- Texas


November 18, 2010

Though my heart aches,
Though my soul grieves,
Though my head hurts,
Though I cannot see,
I am living on,
I will follow through.
No one will know,
And that will do.

I'm wearing a mask,
It is working well;
No one will ask,
No one can tell.

Though you live through the pain,
It never really goes away.
Through sun and rain,
You live with it day to day.

Friends want to aid me
And keep me lifted high.
But things are not as they should be,
And to not admit that would be a lie.

And though I am not doubting
That I will see him again,
I will always be missing
The companionship of my friend.

Copyright © 2008 Grant Parfitt
This was a poem that I wrote when my best friend died suddenly, two years ago. I wrote poetry to try and cope, and it was difficult. I am hoping now that the pain I went through will at least help to comfort someone going through the same thing.


November 18, 2010

"Death is a Celebration of a life had. The only ones sad are the ones who didn't get to go."

Written in 2010 by Zadok Standley --- California
I came up with it after hearing about a dear friend's death.


November 18, 2010

Hearing your name,
Wearing your jacket,
Leaving us,
Breaking my one promise
... All hurts

But loving you
Even though you're gone
Makes it all worth it.

Written in 2010 by Mary G. --- Massachusetts


November 18, 2010

"Life takes you on different paths... not realizing what you already have... and what you are willing to lose... for an illusion you have created of what you want ahead."

Written in 2010 by Hardik Modha --- India
I wrote this quotation after going through what I would call a nightmare of a life. I realized that we can see and identify all the paths of life preparing us for the future.


November 18, 2010

Give Me Your Roses, She Said

There was a man who had a son.

One day God said, I must take your son.

NO, the man said with a cry, he cannot die.

For the next 17 months he did everything he could.
He tried and tried to save his son's life.
He prayed, he cried, he stood by his son's side.

One day God said Now, I must take your son.

The man was so sad.
He felt so bad.
He never knew he could love someone so much.
He so missed his son's touch.

He built a memorial to his son and planted roses.
He thought of him night & day.
He did not cry
For the son who died.

Then he met someone.
She made him smile.

Give me your roses, she said.

No, I cannot give you my roses,
They are for my son.
He died, He cried.

Oh, I am sorry.
When did he die?
Give me your roses, she said.

He died four months ago,
I miss him so much.
I am so sad,
I feel so bad, he said.

I'm sorry,
It has been a long time.
Get over it now.
Give me your roses, she said.

No, I will never get over my son.
He died, he cried.
I am so sad,
I miss him so bad.

I have a son.
He can be your son
Give me your roses, she said.

No, I have another son.
I need to be by his side.
I don't want him to die.
He has a child,
She is my grandchild, he said.

I have a daughter,
She has children.
She can be your daughter,
They can be your grandchildren.
Give me your roses, she said.

He was so sad.
She made him feel glad.
She wanted his roses.

He gave her his roses.

She smiled with delight.
He was glad.
Everyone around him was so sad.
God has his one son,
He felt he had none.
He forgot his living one.

I have a son,
He can be your son.
Give me your roses, she said.

He left in the night,
Not a word was said.
He left as if dead.

He left his son,
He left his granddaughter,
He left his life.
It felt so right.

His family cried.
It was like he had died.

Now he has a new life.
He has a new son.
He thought he had none,
He forgot his living one.

He has new grandchildren,
His real one is heartbroken.
He has a new life,
He says it feels right.
Give me your roses, she said.

Written in 2010 by Granny B.


November 18, 2010

"God does not promise skies always blue but He does promise to see us through!"

Author Unknown
Submitted by Esther Marama --- Fiji


November 18, 2010

"It is not as hard the task to get there as the trust that you can. Dream a dream bigger than yourself; demonstrate yourself bigger than the dream. The lot about life is this that every man's lot is in the way he drives, and the extent he packed off. My crippled legs may be feeble on the way, but my mind has taken flight."

Copyright © 2010 Yusuf Iyodo
I am a man who has known grief, and healing from it. I am a physically challenged person who has transcended his limit, conquered his fears, and turned into a life coach. My book, titled "The Unstoppable Spirit" was launched a couple of months ago.


July 13, 2010

Let Me Go

When I come to the end of the road
And the sun has set for me,
I want no rites in a gloom-filled room.
Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little - but no for long
And not with your head bowed low.
Remember the love that we once shared,
Miss me, but let me go.

For this journey that we all must take
And each must go alone.
It's all part of the Master's plan
A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of heart
Go to the friends we know,
And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds.
Miss me - but let me go.

Author Unknown
Sent in by I.C. --- Scotland
My Gran died on January 23, 2010 of bone cancer. My Granddad wrote this on the back of the order of service at her funeral. When I find it hard and I can't cope, I will read this and look at her picture and know that she is my guardian angel that is always with me and looking over me, and keeping me safe. She is never going to go away and will always be in my heart till we meet again. I wish I could just see her one more time, hear her laughing again but I know that she is out of pain and will never need to suffer again. I miss you Gran, you are always in my heart.


July 13, 2010

"I am thinking of you. If you were sad or down, I send you loving thoughts for sunnier days so that instead of chaos, you may have serenity and peace."

Written in 2010 by Hercolena Oliver --- South Africa


July 13, 2010

Back in 2009, I lost two of my loved ones.

On March 12th 2009, my husband of 8 years passed away suddenly of a massive heart attack at the young age of 42. There were no signs or warnings and he was gone within minutes. I tried my best to perform CPR, but could not save him. I watched him pass away in our home.

I didn't want to believe that he was gone. My brain kept screaming "THIS ISN'T HAPPENING!! WAKE UP! IT'S JUST A DREAM!" However, it wasn't a dream but real life. I also couldn't believe that I was a widow at the age of 34. I questioned why this had happened and why he was taken from me? We had been together for a total of 15 years; how could I not have seen any signs?

I do not have the answers and I am not sure I will ever get the answers. My emotions after his death were disbelief, depression, severe sadness, anger, fear, but basically a mixture of emotions. I had such tremendous support from my family and friends. They helped me through and were there for me to lean on. I needed my family and friends more than anything.

Six weeks after my husband passed away, on April 24th 2009, my mother passed away. My mother had been ill for some time, but we didn't know that she would not recover.

My mom went into the hospital in January and wasn't able to attend for my husband's services. I was on a conference call with my dad and the hospital, when the doctor told all of us that we needed to make one of the hardest decisions we had ever encountered. None of us wanted to let her go. She was our mother, and was suppose to live forever.

The doctor went to check on her and she started to have complications. We all told the doctor to tell her that we will be there and to wait. I had an hour drive to the hospital (which I made it in less than 45min), and my middle sister had a 5 hr ride. My dad and older sister were already there.

My mom was so strong; she waited until her family was there. We all got a chance to talk to her and let her know how much we loved her. The only thing we wanted was to hear her say "I love you too." I was standing at the side of her bed, and just couldn't believe that I was now watching my mother pass away.

My life felt like it was completely upside down. I wasn't sure how I was going to make it through all of this, but I remember that my mom was so worried that after the loss of my husband, that I would just "curl up and die". I promised her that I wouldn't and I haven't.

It has been such a struggle, but once again my family and friends were my support and they were my rock. I knew that I couldn't just seclude myself and cry, even though I really wanted to. I had to move forward, and gather the strength needed to survive.

I will honestly say it wasn't easy and I still have my moments of bursting into tears, sadness, and depression. However, I then think of the good times and all of the memories that I had with my husband and my mother.

I wrote the following, on March 16th 2010, and posted it on my face book page:

"Time in my opinion really doesn't seem to heal us, but it helps us learn to deal with our loss and continue to move forward. The tears will always continue to be shed, but we have the memories that will be forever locked in our minds and in our hearts."

Copyright © 2010 Shannon M. Russell


July 13, 2010

"Death is not extinguishing the light, it is putting out the lamp because the dawn has come."

Rabindranath Tagore
Submitted by Thirunavukkarasu Srinivasan --- India


July 13, 2010

"Sometimes you have to fall, in order to see who will be there to pick you up."

Written in 2010 by A.B. --- Australia
This has been my personal experience
      a deep crash into depression and mental illness and a humbling experience of finding who abandoned me (including my partner of 3 years) and who rallied around me.


July 13, 2010

"Think not about what you have lost but think of what he will gain. Let sorrow be the teacher that teaches you how to love and let go of love."

Written in 2010 by Pilar Sarmiento Virginia
I just lost my brother recently and although we lost him and will surely missed him, we know that he is now in a better place than we are.


July 13, 2010

This is a poem I wrote on the 5th Anniversary of my Mother-in-Law's death, May 12, 2010

In Memory of MKW

She always had a shoulder to cry on
Her heart as genuine as newly fallen flakes of snow.
From the moment I came into her life
She loved, nurtured, and guided me
As part of her family, as though it was always so.

She delighted in all our little successes
And with her beloved of them all
Into her arms and into her heart
She planted her much adored grandson.
She was not there to greet her granddaughter
Yet she incarnates her, their spirits are not far apart.

In the 5 years since she left this place
A family has been fractured
Her only son a different man.
I stand by him, heartbroken and helpless
As the grief continues to weigh heavy
I pray for peace and comfort, if only something can.

The graciousness you embody
Befalls in all of us
Inhabiting our souls, you forever will
You made us all better and we will not forget.
Today I try wearily not to mourn
Choosing to celebrate all in us you did instill.
As promised, I will take care of your son
Though I fear not as well as you.

Like a mighty mountain, I will be strong
As a gentle breeze, I will soothe
Leaning on faith and hope
Until we are together, where we all belong.

Written in 2010 by DMW


July 13, 2010

My daughter Jessica died Feb.9.2010 from the illness, cystic fibrosis. I still don't know how to get through each day. This is for her.

Jessica

You never said you're leaving
You never said goodbye
You were gone before I knew it,
And only God knew why.

A million times I needed you,
A million times I cried.
If love alone could have saved you,
You never would have died.

In life I loved you dearly
In death I love you still
In my heart you hold a place,
That nobody could ever fill.

It broke my heart to lose you,
But you didn't go alone
For part of me went with you,
The day God took you home.

Love You
Mom


Author Unknown
Sent in by Barbara Markie


July 13, 2010

My uncle was like a father and best friend to me. It's hard when you lose a loved one so suddenly; it hurt. He had cancer and when we found out, it was too late; it felt like a knife going thru my heart. My sister found a poem that suits him so well.

In Loving Memory of Danny Ray "Abbitt" Martin
You will be missed by all


Morning Glory

This morning I opened my eyes
Like a flower blooming the first time
Taking in the Heavenly light
From God's son shining so bright

Life in a King's garden in full bloom
Always standing with no gloom
The Gardener watches with care
For his flowers he loves so dear

In Heaven he attends to us all
And my petals never fade nor fall
So when down remember this story
And you'll see me in a morning glory

Author Unknown
Submitted by Reeka Reed --- Kentucky
This poem suited him so well because Morning Glories were his favorite flowers.


July 13, 2010

Our Angel

A heartbeat, a sweet hope, our baby was he.
Our dream, our life, our future was he.
An angel, so divine, a bright light was he.
A good news, God's favorite child was he.

A bunch of smiles he gave us,
Tons of laughter he gave us,
Baby, our sweet baby, you left us,
With the promise of love from morn till dusk.

Our little one, you abide in heaven,
In the midst of angels and good men.
Baby, you left us with the everlasting truth,
That our love has made a place, even in heaven.

Copyright © 2010 Shiny Oommen
This poem is dedicated to all those who have lost their children.


July 13, 2010

"I say your name in the wind, to blow to a star to greet you and shine on you where(ever) you are."

Written in 2010 by Hercolena Oliver --- South Africa


July 13, 2010

Dear Mommy

I know you are sad that I had to leave
And you don't understand why I couldn't breathe
And I know it doesn't help you, that I am no longer in pain
But I promise I hear you every time you call my name

I try and touch you and comfort you when you cry
And I know you don't understand why I had to die
Sometimes I hold you as you fall asleep
The tears sometimes don't stop as you continue to weep

I try and let you know I am there
I see you hugging my bunny and my teddy bear
And I caress your face
But sometimes it doesn't help, as you stare at the corner
That used to be my space

I see you hold my clothes searching for that baby smell
I just wish I could stop you from believing that you are in hell
Precious Mommy, I know you miss me more every day
And I know you struggle and look for answers, something to say
I can feel how much you miss me every minute of the day
But even though I tried, I just was not meant to stay

Please don't think I ever held you to blame
It was just my time, I had to go
They called my name

I know you wish to hold me just one more time
Just remember,
As much as I was yours, you were also mine

My heart knows how much you loved me
Even though you had to let me go
And even after death, I promise you I know

Sometimes while you are sleeping, I curl up next to you
And I sing our song, just like you used to do
I curl my fingers around yours, just like I always did
And I place butterfly kisses upon each eye lid

Please don't ever believe
That I didn't know how much you loved me
Because I felt it every time I breathed

This world was just too cruel for me to stay too long
And I know you are angry and it feels so wrong
But now instead of you watching over me
I watch over you every single day
And I will always be your strength in every way

And even though it was time for me to depart
I did not die
Because I live in your heart.

Love Always,
Your Daughter, Malia

Copyright © 2008 Amber Delatorre-Melendez
I wrote this poem for my daughter Malia, who passed away in Dec 06. She was only 5 1/2 months.

I should say that my daughter wrote this poem and I was the vessel she used to make it alive because when I wrote this poem, I don't remember thinking of the words; it just all came together like she was with me right there telling me what to write.


July 13, 2010

"Death ends a life, not a Relationship."

Written in 2010 by Arbind Modi --- India
Missing so much those who died.


July 13, 2010

To My Daughter, With Love

On the day you laid me to rest
I whispered I love you
I vowed to watch over you
I vowed to shower God with your praise

It has been so long
Since I've held you
I've missed your laugh
And precious smile
I've missed the twinkle in your hazel eyes

I know you need me
I know you seek my guidance
I need you too, my Little One

As I patiently await for you
I dream that I'm holding your hand
As we play upon a cloud
Under a sky of cornflower blue

You need not rush to me
Laugh, cry, smile, love, care... Live
When you need me most
Close your eyes
And feel me beside you

Copyright &copy 2003 Heidi Anne Lenox
In Memory of my Grandmother, Helen F Lever
Dedicated to my Mother, Connie Lever Drelinger


July 13, 2010

"Look deep inside hate, there is Love."

Written in 2010 by Jeton Lajqi
... from Kosova


July 13, 2010

I wrote these two quotes, when I felt like I was alone, after my best friend died.

"When you lose someone close, God's opening the door for someone to move even closer."

Written in 2010 by Tiffany B. --- Missouri



"When you doubt everyone else, trust God for he knows above all else."

Written in 2010 by Tiffany B. --- Missouri


July 13, 2010

Tears may fall, but I won't cry.
You can ask me, but I won't tell you why.
And although it hurts, I won't let it show.
I still want you so much, but no one will know.
I may think of you, but not say your name.
Even though I'm so lonely, to you it's the same.
All, I'll miss you so much, but you won't know at all.
And I'll think about it, but never call.
I'll write down the words, but not say them out loud.
There's so much inside me, but I won't let it out.
I want you here with me, but I'll never try.
My heart is broken, but I can't say goodbye.

Written in 2006 by Rose L. --- Australia
I chose this one because I lost 3 people: Great*2 Granddad in 1999, my Uncle in 2002, and a Family friend in 2004. I loved all of them very much and I didn't know how to deal with a loss until I started doing poetry!! To grieve, I play music, write poetry, and what I love doing the most --- drawing. Everyone is different!!!


July 13, 2010

Love here on Earth,
Love beyond the grave,
There are no roads
My love for you can't pave.

Author Unknown


"Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory comfort you tomorrow."

Author Unknown
Submitted by Hannah B. --- New York
My father died two years ago. It seems like a lifetime. He was my best friend, the person I could go to for anything! I miss him like crazy and even though I still have yet to stop crying for him, sometimes things like this help a lot. These and a few others have reminded me that everything happens for a reason I guess, and that we are not separated forever. Still miss him like crazy and it never seems to get any better.


July 13, 2010

Trying Times

They come when I try.
And fly when I'm dry.
They push when I'm sly.
And cease when I ply.

Sometimes I apply
When there's no sun in the sky.
And all that remains is why I must vie,
Even when there's no rye.

It's hard to imagine
How the wind blows to pieces.
What you've built in one piece.
But the mind says 'hold'
And don't quit
Even when it's cold!

Copyright © 2009 Chukwuebuka Ezeife
I wrote this poem after contacting a disease. It helped me pull through life!


March 18, 2010

Dedicated to my friend: Duncan MacPherson
(February 3, 1966 - August 9, 1989)

D.U.N.C.A.N.2.0.

The people that know me well know that I love cycling and train most days for four hours. My personal record time was finally achieved at 57 minutes in the 42.5km time trial on July 24th, 2009. For a month in my training I had placed white tape on each of my four fingers, on both hands. Each piece of tape has a letter, spelling D.U.N.C.A.N.2.0.
This is a tribute to my friend Duncan MacPherson. On Aug 9th, 2009 it was twenty years since his passing on.

Duncan's parents lived across the street from my grandparents. As kids, from time to time, we would play. In our early twenties as young adults we would start hanging out again. He too loved cycling and in his off-season from playing professional hockey would cycle as part of his conditioning. Both of us would often train together.

Duncan had a passion for excellence in everything he did, particularly in his sport of choice. Hockey. He was drafted by the N.Y. Islanders in the first round in 1984. He loved a challenge. He loved trying something new. He gave his best to each day.

I learned so much from him during those summers. The commitment. The level of training one needed to do. He made me appreciate every new day in a way I hadn't before. The bike frame that I use today is the same one I used then. Sure, the one's now are one-third the weight and far superior. But this frame has a history and in part I use it to remember his life.

Since his death, some people have remarked how sad it was that he was just twenty-three when he died. But the way I look at it Duncan was alot like the "morning glory" flower. Morning glories, if you look closely at them, will show you how extraordinary they are both in colour and texture. And that in their center, is a kind of golden light that shines from within. At the end of the day they turn a most beautiful shade of lavender and then close up, wither, and die. They live for only one day and then they are gone.

You see, it doesn't matter how long your life is. It only matters that you were here in all your glory, and that you opened up completely and let your light shine. And that you brought joy to those who came into contact with you. That's what matters to the morning glory, and that's what should really matter to all of us.

Aug 2nd, 1989 was the last day I saw my friend Duncan. His last words were: "Miles, I don't know when I'll see you again."

I remember his face and those words as if it were yesterday. So, I place the white tape and the letters to give thanks for all his glory. For his extraordinary life. To keep challenging myself and others as he did.

For more on the life of Duncan MacPherson, click here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duncan_MacPherson

Copyright © 2009, 2010 Miles Patrick Yohnke
All Rights Reserved.


March 18, 2010

January 25th was the 5th anniversary of my mother's passing. I submit this poem in her memory.

If roses grow in Heaven, Lord
Please pick a bunch for me.
Place them in my Mother's arms
And tell her they're from me.

Tell her I love her and miss her,
And when she turns to smile,
Place a kiss upon her cheek
And hold her for a while.

Because remembering her is easy,
I do it everyday,
But there is an ache within my heart
That will never go away.

Author Unknown
Submitted by Janet Cuthbert --- New Jersey
I would love to be able to give her roses in person. I'm so glad I was good to her while she was here on earth. I have no regrets. Be good to those you love while they are with you. Tomorrow is guaranteed to no one.


March 18, 2010

"Oh Death! I'm not afraid of you. Me and you have the same Creator and He has placed me above you."

Written in 2010 by Erwin Paulus --- Namibia
Came up with this thought when my Grandma told me that I survived meningitis when I was eight.


March 18, 2010

The first time I experienced the deep pain of losing someone through death I was just thirteen. I had been rummaging through my parents old box of keepsakes when I came across a death certificate that bared my own last name.

I just sat there staring at the piece of paper in my hand. I already knew my parents had lost a baby. I knew he was their first-born son. I knew he was only three months old. I knew many of the details, but there was something I had missed.

Staring at his death certificate, he became alive to me for the first time. He became my brother. I cried that day for the loss of a would be big brother I never knew. I cried again years later after having my own children. This time I cried for my mother. It wasn't until then that I understood how much she loved her son.

Can a mother forget the baby at her breast, and have no compassion on the child she has born? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See I have engraved you on the palms of my hands. Isaiah 49:15-16a

Can a mother forget?

It has been almost fifty years since my mother lost her precious infant son. She hasn't forgotten one tiny fold of his skin. His picture still sits on her nightstand next to where she lays her head each night. He engraved her heart the day he was born. Can she forget? No, never.

Do you ever wonder if God has forgotten you? He says even if a mother forgets, He will not forget you. God is reminding you today; He remembers you yesterday and won't forget you tomorrow.

See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands. Isaiah 49:16a

Copyright © 2008 Theresa Gober
Though I can't imagine or pretend to know what the loss of a child begins to feel like, I do know how much I love my own children. I wrote about my experience with loss first through the eyes of a sister and then through the eyes of my mother. It is a short story that started when I was just 13. It took many years to complete such a short story, but some things take a little longer to understand. I dedicate this to my mother, who knows what it is to suffer great loss.


March 18, 2010

"If things did not shine for you today, always remember...tomorrow will be another day and the Sun will shine again."

Written in 2005 by Fe Florimon --- New York


March 18, 2010

"There's no kind of pain you're currently going through that God can't heal. Healing might take time, but it'll surely come."

Written in 2010 by Stanley Anukege --- Nigeria



"Some situations come to you in life to make you strong, not to make you isolated."

Written in 2010 by Stanley Anukege --- Nigeria
It's been my determination to mingle again after the loss of my sister.


March 18, 2010

In January 2006 my boyfriend's (now husband) Mum died quite suddenly with subarachnoid hemorrhage. This is a poem I wrote to him, in her memory. I wrote it on the 29th January 2006 --- 3 days after her death.

I am here now,
I have made my final journey
No need for you to shed a tear.
I know that you are hurting deeply,
But do not fear, Jesus is here with me.

I understand that for you, it was all so very sudden
I understand that none of this feels right.
By all means cry, but when all your tears have fallen
Remember happy times of us together, you and I.

Speak to me as always you have spoken
Think fondly upon memories we shared
Time will heal, but please do not forget me
I'll be waiting, here with Jesus,
For the time to come when we will meet again.

Copyright © 2006 Karen Nisbet
I live in Bolton, England and have written a lot of amateur poetry --- mainly through years of suffering with M.E. My faith was always the one constant and what kept me going through the dark times.


March 18, 2010

I lost my Great-Grandma in Sept 2003, my Great-Grandpa in Sept 2004, my Grandma in July 2006, my Nana in May 2009, and a very close friend who was like an "Uncle" to me in Dec 2009. They meant the world to me and being so young, it hurt me more to have lost these loved ones.

They were all sick for quite some time but they all were still cheerful and happy. I only got to say good-bye to one of them before they had passed on.

When my "Uncle" passed away, I was with him the day before. It just kills me because I was on my way out to see him again and we drove right past where he had crashed and we didnt even notice that there was a hole in the fence or the gash in the tree.

I love all of you guys: Tutu, Big Papa, Grandma, Nana, and Chris aka Bro. You are all still very close to me and miss you all so dearly. Here is a quote that I am about to get tattooed on my side, and then 5 stars, one for each person.


"Perhaps they are not stars, but openings in the Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy."

Author Unknown
Submitted by Written by Ashley F., Age 18 --- California
I selected this one because they are all in heaven looking down at me and my family. I know they are still around and I know that they are no longer sick, or in pain. Also I was going to get it tattooed on my side is because I know even though they are in heaven, they are still by my side.


March 18, 2010

Well I lost my friend, Skylin. Oh man, he was so great to me and I really miss him.

I miss you and your beautiful smile
And you should know you're worth my while
You went away so soon
You released like a balloon

You were like a open book
But only finished the first chapter
Life is like a car
But once you run outta gas
Things happen and the days pass and pass

Written in 2010 by Written by A.S., Age 14


March 18, 2010

"When we realize that we are thought to be just a worthless person to someone special, tears and pain become our companion."

Written in 2010 by Marliana
I had just been through such an experience and it's really heartbreaking.


March 18, 2010

"Physically you may be far away but the love and kindness you showered on us reminds us of your presence every moment, every day! Miss you a Lot."

Arsiha
Submitted by Arpit Singh --- India
I miss my Father a lot.


March 18, 2010

My wife of 34 yrs passed away last August. It has been a big blow to me especially at this Christmas season. I wouldn't be able to make it without the love and support of my good friends and family. I visited your website a few days back and it brought great comfort to me so I wanted to return the favor. I've written poems for my wife in the past but I felt that I owed her just one more and I thought I would share it with you.

Follow Me

I had this bright light in my life.
It was my best friend, it was my wife.
Her light was brighter than all the stars,
It made the world glow from afar.

But now it's gone from you and me
Because the Lord said "Follow Me"

She had the warmest hugs and smile
She'd go the distance, go the mile.
But now that's gone, the rooms grown cold.
I feel so tired, I feel so old.

The smiles and hugs are gone from me.
Because the Lord said "Follow Me."

Now there's a big void in my heart.
The tears do flow, I'm torn apart.
The pain is real it hurts so bad.
I suffer now for I am sad.

The tears do flow for all to see
Because the Lord said "Follow Me."

Will my heart mend? I do not know.
How quickly will the pain let go?
Will the light shine brightly ever again?
Will I feel the warmth spread from within?

I feel these things will come to me
Because the Lord said "Follow Me."

Copyright © 2009 David Nilles


March 18, 2010

To My Dad, who lost his life in the Line of Duty in 2006.
He was a Firefighter for 21 Years

Rest In Peace, Fallen Firefighter, Allan Michael Roberts
Baltimore City Fire Dept., Engine 27, Truck 26, Local 734


Daddy's Last Flame

Whenever there was fear in someone's eyes
You'd drop everything you were doing
You'd be there in a hurry, to make sure no one died
No matter how big, you always kept going

You knew the dangers, for you'd thought about them many times
But you didn't care, this was your dream, all you knew
So whenever you had doubts, you'd look to the sky
To guide you as you did what you knew you had to do

I thought you'd return, every time you left home
You promised me that, and you've never broken one before
So I couldn't believe you left me in this world alone
I couldn't believe I would see you no more

I knew you'd been hurt real bad
You couldn't handle the heat and so to the ground you fell
When the top floor fell, it trapped you Dad
You knew you needed help and they knew it as well

I hate to think about your air mask falling off and your skin that burned
Your brothers were looking for you but they were taking too long
Just for a miracle, you prayed and yearned
But by the time that they found you, you were already gone

The man I saw laying there, still and cold
Dressed in his best uniform, hat neatly placed
The burns on your face were proof,
And yet the truth remains untold.

It kills me to think the fear you must have faced
I still question every detail.
No one's story makes sense
What happened that day?
I really need to know
The way you lost your life and all that suspense
You died a hero, but you still had so much to show

I don't know what to think, as your casket's being lowered
I hear amazing grace and the pastor praise your name
But I just cannot accept
That you've put out your last flame.

Copyright © 2010 Kaitlyn Roberts
When my dad died in 2006, it tore my world to shreds. He'll never hear me sing, which is my dream in life. Rest in peace Daddy & all the other Fallen Heroes.


March 18, 2010

"Forgotten... It's not that you've forgotten no, it only goes to show that his memory is moving from your heart into your soul; there to be a shining light to guide you on your way, leaving room inside your heart that love might live again."

Written in 2008 by Susan Jaycox --- Illinois
I wrote this for my sister to help her cope with her husband's death.


February 4, 2010

I am a mother of three children. I had to bury two of my children at very young ages, within two years of each other. My pain is deep, but I found what keeps me going is faith. To know that I provided two beautiful precious angels to god and that the day I cross thru heavens gates my life will be changed. The pain that I carry will be gone and the hugs and kisses that I long for will be everlasting. So every tear that you shed missing them remember that tear represents the hugs and kisses you will rejoice with them.

Written in 2009 by Bernadette Woods --- Alabama
I wrote this from heart to give grieving parents like myself hope.


February 4, 2010

If tears could build a stairway,
And memories a lane,
I'd walk right up to Heaven
And bring you home again.

Author Unknown
Submitted by M.M., Age 13 --- United Kingdom
My Best friend died when she was 11 in a car crash. I picked this because it is on her grave.


February 4, 2010

On Monday December 21, 2009 it was a normal day. I went to school at 7:50am and got out at 3:01pm. I always go to my Mem's house after school (Mem is grandmother in French).

I came to her door and unlocked it. She wasn't sitting in her chair watching Judge Judy like she did everyday. I looked back in her room and saw her sleeping. I started to walk back but I didn't hear her snoring. I proceeded to approach her and take her pulse.

My heart dropped, I didn't know what to do. She raised me my whole life and I felt as if the weight of the world was about to push me through the floor. I cried till I couldn't cry any more but then I realized something.

She wouldn't want me to sulk about what happened. She would want me to continue and think of all the good times we had together. I was lucky enough to spend her last month with her and I thank god for that opportunity. I just wish she would come back tomorrow for Christmas. I miss her so much.

Written in 2009 by Chris Lemay
I chose to send this because things can happen at anytime and that you should cherish every moment with your elders. And if you get into fights with your parents or family members, always keep in the back of your head that they could disappear in a heartbeat.


February 4, 2010

"It's better to cry than to be angry. Anger hurts others, while tears flow silently through the soul and cleanse the heart."

Author Unknown
Submitted by Hina Shehzad --- United Arab Emirates


February 4, 2010

The Unsung Hero

You are the favored protagonist in the novels I've read
One part villainous, two parts fragile and mysterious - an enigma.
Yours is a journey thousand years in the making
Looking for love in many places but your own
Sail away where you wish to go

I have heard the different names you wrote,
Saw you garbed with your colorful clothes
Silently witnessed the many times you bleed,
Soberly helpless to take cover
Cry if you must and don't conceal your tears

Happy endings are meant for princesses
But for you gypsy eyed nymph, I pray you comfort.
The night is stale and stark
The wind is harsh on your face
Yours are emotions stirred like roaring gales

Parasol, you are a an unassuming powerhouse
Untouched and undefiled
Your mind is a labyrinth unmarked by foreigners...
Come home and be at peace with yourself
The day is too long for you to answer all your queries.

Tonight, revel in the dreams you had when you were young.
Succumb to the womb of the earth
Raise your hands in prayer
And be at the mercy of the gods
They might grant your longings all at once.

Tomorrow, love as if you never knew hurt and hatred
Never look back on yesterday
Brave the great unknown
Walk straight to what they thought of as the clandestine path
I'll be seeing you there... till then...I'll be with you!

Copyright © 2010 Czarina Ortz --- Philippines
For Mere, my strength and my inspiration.


February 4, 2010

"God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but he did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears and light for the way."

Author Unknown
Submitted by Shreya G., Age 14 --- India
So true! We do have a lot of sorrows in life but the positive part is that along with that, god has given each one of us our very own inner strengths.


February 4, 2010

"Some day you will read in the papers that MaryAnn Murphy, of Crownsville, is dead. Don't you believe a word of it! At that moment she shall be more alive than I am now, she shall have gone up higher, that is all; out of this old clay tenement into a house that is immortal - a body that death cannot touch; that sin cannot taint; a body fashioned like His glorious body. She was born of the flesh in 1941, she was born of the Spirit in 2010. That which is born of the flesh may die, that which is born of the Spirit will live forever."

DL Moody (1841)
Submitted by John Murphy --- Maryland
I was presented with this quote and changed it just a bit after losing my mom this past Saturday morning. Grief is a natural emotion, God allowed us to have it to understand how he feels when he not only lost his only son, but when he loses each one of us when we take him out of our lives. Have faith and know that God has a plan for each of us, we cannot wonder why? Mom I miss you but your in the greatest place of all now...P.S. Tell God thank you for me for giving you to me for the last 6 weeks... I love you!


February 4, 2010

"Death is the beginning of an exciting journey to a wonderful new place. By being sad about losing a loved one is actually an act of selfishness for not wanting to lose them. Really one should be happy, for their loved one is going to an infinitely better place."

Author Unknown
Submitted by Tomara Elisha --- Australia
This really helped ease the fears I have around losing a loved one; not that I fear death itself but rather the pain and sorrow of never seeing them again. This brought me a lot of comfort and helped me get past a deeply routed fear which was crippling for me. I hope it may help others and change their perspective as it did mine.


February 4, 2010

Here's a poem that has comforted me in the sudden loss of my husband.

He is Gone

You can shed tears that he is gone,
Or you can smile because he lived,
You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back,
Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left.

Your heart can be empty because you can't see him
Or you can be full of the love that you shared,
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.

You can remember him and only that he is gone
Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on,
You can cry and close your mind be empty and turn your back,
Or you can do what he would want:
Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

Those we love don't go away,
They walk beside us every day,
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear.

Author Unknown
Submitted by Dorothy M. --- North Carolina


February 4, 2010

My First Christmas In Heaven

I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below
With tiny lights, like heavens stars, reflecting on the snow.
The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away the tear
For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear,
But the sounds of music can't compare
With the Christmas choir up here.
I have no words to tell you, the joy their voices bring,
For it is beyond description, to hear the angles sing.

I know how much you miss me; I see the pain in your heart,
But I am not so far away, we really aren't apart.
So be happy for me, dear ones, you know I hold you dear.
And be glad I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I sent you each a special gift, from my heavenly home above.
I sent you each a memory of my undying love.
After all, love is a gift more precious then pure gold,
It was always most important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other, as my father said to do.
For I can't count the blessings or love he has for each of you.
So have a Merry Christmas and wipe away that tear.
Remember, I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

Written in 1997 by Ben
Submitted by Vicki Slater --- Idaho
My brother, my best friend, died September 17th 2009 and I miss him so much. Being that close to Christmas, the funeral chapel had invited us to a service for people that had lost a love one within the past 3 months, to comfort those of us that are dealing with the loss at such a family oriented occasion. They read this poem out loud and I just lost it. The poem was written by a young boy, 13 years of age, to comfort his mother. He knew he was dying and would be gone by Christmas. I want to share it with all.


February 4, 2010

This is a poem I wrote for my grieving girlfriend who lost her brother. I felt so bad for her and felt so helpless; I needed to show her how much I loved her.

Furtherance

I heard you had a broken heart,
Torn beyond repair,
I'd love to try, but where to start?
To rid you of despair.
I wish I could bring him back to you,
Your brother in your arms,
I wish I could turn back time for you
And protect him from future harm.
I do have a spool of thread made of love,
That I could use to mend your heart,
It comes from a special place made of love
Your place in my heart.
So I will simply continue to do what I do
Protect you from harm,
With all my heart I'll keep loving you,
Holding you forever in my arms...

Copyright © 2010 Michael Craig Rizzo

More Publications By Miles

Helping Through The Grief



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