Remember

Thank you for all the comments you left on my last post. I can't express how much they mean to me. The love, hope and prayers that are offered in our behalf are truly life-giving and give us the courage and strength to go on.

The other day, I received a tender email from a reader. She too lost a little boy close to Bennett's age. On his Angel Day (anniversary of his death), they released balloons at his grave. To give added meaning to their journey, they decided to write the names of other children who have passed away whose families they have met along the path. Bennett was included in their release. They included this picture of his balloon.

I don't know if this sweet friend has any idea how much this means to me. Actually, she probably does.

I can't tell you how much joy it brings me when someone talks about my son. When they share a memory, say his name, mention him in a casual conversation, send their love to him in a prayer or leave a note at his grave. He owns a chunk of real estate in my heart. And - until we are reunited - part of me will never feel whole. My arms will always ache for him. But each time some one else remembers what is SO much a part of our family story, it reassures me that Bennett's memory will live on. That others won't forget his meaningful (though short) life on this earth. And that somehow, we will all learn the lessons we are meant to learn from this heartache.

So thank you, Saville Family. Thank you for remembering our Sweet Bennett and including our family on such a delicate day. I'm sure it was tender. I'm sure there were even some really tough moments. But I also pray that you were able to celebrate your sweet Gabriel. What a gift he was and IS.

Thank heaven (and we do daily) that families are forever. It doesn't take away the heartache or change our situations, but it gives us Hope. And that Hope helps us put one foot in front of another.

We will remember. We will never forget.