with Wesley in 2011
I carry you with me wherever I go.
You’re the kind words I speak. When I’m called upon to assist others, you’re the gentle tone I use. You taught me how to use words softly, to build up and strengthen those who are small, and those who feel small. You yourself were small, just a little bigger than my hand. You taught me how to be gentle.
You’re the compassion I feel. When I see others struggle with pain, disappointment, fear, death, sickness, or other problems, you’re my reason for offering to help. You showed me a love greater than myself – the depths of which regularly become filled with love and concern for others. You’re the place I go when I need to remember what it feels like. You taught me how to have empathy.
You’re the courage I possess. When I’m scared of the future, or when the fear of death creeps upon me, you make me feel brave, because you were brave. You faced the unthinkable, but you still fought with everything you had. And even though you succumbed, you bravely passed away. You taught me how to be fearless.
You’re the faith in my heart. When I have my doubts, the Hope of seeing you again is undeniable. The knowledge of your condition in a sleeplike state is of great comfort to me. I know you are not somewhere missing me, and neither are you gone forever. You are simply waiting to wake up. You are the reason I want to be there when you do. You taught me how to have integrity.
You’re the love in everything I do. When I’m holding your baby brother, there you are. You are the soft caresses on a sleepy little head, and the kisses on little cheeks in the morning. You are the patience in helping with first words, first steps, and all the accidents and messes that have been and are yet to come. You are the love that shines through it all. You are teaching me how to be a mother.
Of everyone I have ever met, it was the greatest privilege to have met you.
You have made me so much better than I would have been without you.
So I carry you with me wherever I go.
And when we meet again, I will be the very best person I could ever be. The very best mother for you.
These Stunning Ruins 