Grief touches all of us. It may be because of a death of a loved one, a loss of a job or tragic life events beyond our control. Grieving hurts and heals. As you read through this section, if you have something you would like to add, please send it here. By sharing, you can help others through their grief.

Your Mother is always with you.

She's the whisper of the leaves as you walk down the street,
She's the smell of certain foods you remember,
Flowers you pick and perfume that she wore.
She's the cool hand on your brow when you're not feeling well.
She's your breath in the air on a cold winter's day.
She is the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep,
The colors of a rainbow; she is Christmas morning.

Your Mother lives inside your laughter
And she's crystallized in every teardrop.
A mother shows every emotion...happiness, sadness, fear,
Jealousy, love, hate, anger, helplessness, excitement, joy, sorrow...
And all the while, hoping and praying
You will only know the good feelings in life.

She's the place you came from, your first home,
And she's the map you follow with every step you take.
She's your first love; your first friend, even your first enemy,
But nothing on earth can separate you.
Not time, not space....not even death!
Author Unknown
Submitted by Cheryl Hughes --- Connecticut

"Even in silence, love is heard."
Author Unknown
Submitted by Vincent Lucky --- Nigeria

"If you think you are poor, there is at least someone somewhere is this world who is poorer than you. Alternatively, if you think you are rich, there are people out there who are richer than you. This goes the same for life. If you feel you are having a rough time in life, there is somebody somewhere in the world, facing much more grief than you."
My Uncle
Submitted by S. N., Age 14 --- Singapore
This is pretty long quote by my Uncle, but it is what made me carry forward and to be the optimistic person I am today. This quote, I hope, teaches one not to be complacent when achieving success but rather to work harder. Don't feel like the world is going to end when you face trouble because you are not alone in your suffering. There are people who are still living, facing much more sufferings that you.

"They say memories are golden, this maybe true. But we never wanted memories, we only wanted you."
Author Unknown
Submitted by Kellie McInerney --- Australia
My 23 year old sister passed away in her sleep and this is a quote we used on her order of service.

My Mommy and Daddy have left me

My daddy didn't die. He loves me very much but he is in jail now, I feel like there's hail in the sky coming to me, I think I'm gonna cry. I never said good-bye to my dad. This makes me feel very sad but I kind of think he deserves being where he is for robbing an ice cream store.

My life feels like it's been torn apart. I still have to wait two more years till I stop my tears. My mommy is in heaven looking down on me. My aunt and uncle now care for me. I call them mommy and daddy because they love me like their own.

I have a new family now that loves me very much so God please, take care of my daddy so I can feel his touch again someday. He sends me letters and we all sit down and read them. Daddy, hurry and come home.
Written in 2008 by Patrick P., Age 8
Submitted by Bonnie O.

On pause... but the record skips...
It's slowing down skipping its tracks and beats...
Not broken or fixed just lost in a mix
Can't breathe but air is free
Can't dream because it can't sleep
Can't eat because it's made itself sick
Is lost without a doubt
But can't find the direction
Where it was about
Can't find the word to say
Because it's mind is lost in thoughts
Say what's from the heart
Because that's what is all about...
Can't seem to feel because it's crushed
Can't scream for help because it's lost
To be found you would have to be lost
To be so trust worthy but then lost
Can't seem to function because it lost it's mind
For I have not wasted my time
For you, I write this
Because my heart can't take this pain anymore
Written in 2008 by Jason Mei

"Never hurt the heart that loves you because wounded hearts are like crushed flowers, which can't bloom again but leaves a sweet perfume in the hands which crushed it."
Author Unknown
Submitted by Pria S. Sanjeev

Will YOU? Please Tell Me

If I search in the dark, will you lift me if I stumble?
If I ask for your forgiveness, will you just let me fall?
Will your mercy wake me up at times I'm out of inner peace?
I know you're always with me, but why do I feel this?
I was trying to seek justice from this world of unequalled favor.
But all I can see is madness and indecent behavior.

From the past, I met people of all nations clouded with doubts,
Tell me is this your purpose?
Is this really what life is all about?
Will you accept me still if I stained my conscience?
'Coz there was a time when I hid on your omniscience.

My soul now is confused and it's getting too heavy.
At the final minute of the day, why does it feel so weary?
Please tell my heart all the answers to all of my queries,
Before it gets polluted or my ways become worldly.
Make it ready to receive and ready to believe
'Coz you are my only Salvation...as long as I live.
Copyright © 2007 Chinny Yu Rosales

"Throughout life storms there is rain, then comes the beaming light of the "Son" that shines peace and dries out all pains, issues and situations. Open up your life's window and let the Son shine on you to help you through times like these!"
Copyright © 2008 Antonio Talbert
There is a comforter through the most high God that will comfort you and yours in life. Pause from your will and allow God's will to be done in and around your life. Now Rest in Peace!

"If something bad happens to you, think of all the things that didn't happen. Things could have been worse."
Author Unknown
Submitted by Vidya Gopalakrishnan --- India
This is a very motivating thing to read when you are too depressed.

Well, it was on a Saturday morning when we were all doing our morning chores. All of a sudden, news came from the hospital that my aunty was dead. My GOD! That news alone scared me almost to death.

My aunty was a very wonderful woman. She gave to the poor, helped those who were in need, in fact, she did all kinds of charitable work and that, I will assure you, was her hobby. She enjoyed helping people and that is why her death pained me so much.

Actually, she died on the 27th of December 2002, and I will tell you that at this very moment, her death still hurts me even to my bones. She loved me and took good care of me whenever I went to her house for holidays. She was a sweet and wonderful aunty and I loved her even to her death.

I would like to use this medium to tell other friends out there, who lost their aunties, that they should take heart and also try to hold and remember the good works that your aunty did (ie, if she is a good one), and also try and follow her footsteps.

Truly, the good will always prevail over the bad, like my aunty would say, and that is what I hold firmly. In any situation I find myself in, I will use the words of my aunt to stand very firm. She was a good woman and I know that she is with the angels and the saints of God in heaven.
Written in 2008 by Augustina A., Age 17 ---Nigeria

"A spouse's love affair never speaks of their partner's shortcomings, however, it speaks volumes about the character of the person they are choosing to become."
Written in 2008 by Barbara Franklin --- Georgia
I think women, especially, blame themselves greatly for any affair their spouse may have during their marriage. Unfortunately, sometimes men themselves, tell them. I heard a reporter talking to Will Smith's wife, Jada Pinkett. He said, "Do you ever worry about all the beautiful women that love him and surround him daily?" Her response was along the lines of, "that's all about him, it has nothing to do with me!" It was an eye-opening revelation and I wrote the above quote.

"Nothing is as deep as grief; for new light exists were I cannot touch it."
Written in 2008 by Haullie Free --- California

"Even when I'm gone, I will still be here because nothing in this world can ever tear us apart."
My Dad
Submitted by Melissa C., Age 14 --- Minnesota
My dad died 4 months ago and this is what he always said to me. I miss him so much and remember that every night I cry myself to sleep.

There are two things I'm sure of: 1. There is a God. 2. I'm not him.
Dennis Houge
Submitted by Timothy K. --- Kansas
This came from the wisest, most positive man I've ever met. The world is a great deal darker without the man, but his light shines on, through his words and deeds. He will be missed forever.

To Lisa Marie Riccione
Born January 17 1987
Died Christmas Morning 2007

Well I haven't had the best of luck
In my high school freshmen year
To tell the truth it kind of sucked
This was my biggest fear

To feel the hurt, the pain, the sorrow
Left no energy for tomorrow
A sign from god that was brutally sent
Killed me inside to the greatest extent

To get this call on Christmas day
Crushed me, what was I supposed to say?
To hear this news it made me weep
To think, my cousin, was in a permanent sleep

The thought of living the holidays without her
Was the thought that crushed the family's soul
May I ask you god, why, sir?
Did it have to be the day that took the biggest toll?

I ask you to tell her I love her dearly
And tell her that she's missed severely
Tell her that she's loved at home
And we hope she not completely, alone

To see her face one more time
Would be the greatest gift that was received of mine
I remembered that you were never fully dressed without a smile
I can't believe it I'm still in denial

I loved you yesterday, I love you still,
Always have,
And always will

Written in 2007 by J.R., Age 15 --- New York
I wrote this after the passing of my 20 year old cousin on Christmas morning.

I lost my very loved aunt in September and it was one of the most hardest things I have ever faced. She was the strongest person I will ever know. No matter how much pain she was in she always wore a smile on her face.

See she had Stage 3 breast cancer that progressed into her lungs and bones. The doctors didn't think she would survive as long as she did and this shows just how strong she truly was.

I will never forget her smiling face. Over the summer of 2007, I became very close with her because I was over there with my mom every day to take care of her while her husband worked. We would also spend the night there, every other night, because we would take turns with my other aunt.

I am so glad that I spent all that time with her because now I have those memories to reflect back on. Anyone who ever met her will never be able to forget her. She is my inspiration to live life to the fullest and live every day like it's my last.

I wrote this poem not too long after she passed away...

You don't understand how much you're missed,
How could it all end like this?
Now you're up in heaven above,
Watching down on us with all your love.

I wish you were here,
So maybe you could help dry these tears.
I think about you every day,
And miss you in every way.
I still can't believe you're gone,
And now everything just feels so wrong.

I'd do anything to see your face,
Everything is just so out of place.
If I could hear your laugh just one last time,
Just to make sure you're fine.

God, I miss you so much,
Sometimes I swear I can feel your touch.
I can't wait till we meet in heaven someday,
Even though I'm not sure what I'd say.
Written in 2007 by Chelsea S., Age 16 --- New York

It all happened so fast, 17 years of knowing you, it was such a blast.
You always stuck up for me no matter if it was good or bad,
And now you leave me here all miserable and sad.

I wish I could tell you everything that was going on,
But I was scared, you're my father
And you would hate to know when something was wrong.

You taught me a lot of things in life,
Money can never replace happiness; it can't ever bring you back.
It's just so sad that you left me on Christmas Day,
You didn't even make it to your birthday.

But I guess your day was marked just like all of us,
We can't do anything now except go on with our life.
It's sad how things worked out, I just want to sit here and shout.

I know that won't ever bring you back,
But I know your watching down on me now
With your glass of wine in one hand and a cigarette in the other
Those were 2 of your favorite hobbies, not counting hunting
You were the best hunter, now what do we have left?

All the memories and good times we all had together.
I was your favorite daughter, always wanted to see me happy
Dad, I just want to tell you that I Love and Miss You so much
No man can ever replace you.
Written in 2007 by Ana D., Age 17 --- Ontario, Canada
I made this poem up myself, straight from my heart. My dad just passed away on Christmas Day of 2007. He had a heart attack; he was only 49 years old. He didn't even make it to his birthday on January 28. It's very hard and stressful but that's life - everyone has their day already marked. It's just sad how things happened but I know my dad is looking down on me now, with a smile on his face, just proud of everything he's done for us. I love him very much, may his soul rest in peace. You never know what you have until you lose it. R.I.P. Dad 12/25/07

"Death is a new beginning to a new journey, a new experience, a new place and time. Death is where we go when we are ready for a higher place...when we have learned what we need to in this lifetime in order to move onto the next. It's graduating to a higher level."
Copyright © 2008 Marion Licchiello


"When it is your time, you are called upon to come to a better place. You are called upon to serve. You are called upon to see old friends and family. You are called upon to only have friends and no enemies. Everyone becomes one. WOW! If you lost a loved one and you are grieving, think about them having a reunion with the ones they love who have passed. It helps. They are in a good place. They want to see you happy too!!"
Copyright © 2008 Marion Licchiello


"When someone passes, we do not lose them for good. We have all of the wonderful memories, all of the pictures, all of the fun times. Keep those things in mind and it makes life here on earth without them a little easier. Make a collage, whether it's on your computer, paper, a digital frame, or in your mind. Keep all of those happy times with you. It makes it a little bit easier. And always remember, someday you will be with them again."
Copyright © 2008 Marion Licchiello


"What do you do when you lose a parent? You remember all of the good. You think about all that you did together and all that he or she did for you. Maybe you could only think about one thing, that's okay. Focus on the positive and know that he or she is in a great place right now still watching over you and loves you. Parents do the best for you with what they learned and knew in life."
Copyright © 2008 Marion Licchiello

It's been a year already since you left without saying goodbye
A year of change and memories, a year of asking why.
You left behind a newborn babe, a five year old and a two
With questions hard to answer, about where their mom went to

You left behind a Husband, with a grieving, heavy heart
Not knowing how to answer, or even how to start
You left behind a mom and dad, brothers and sister too
You left behind a lot of friends, not knowing what to do

We cannot change that fateful day that took you from our life
That took our hopes and dreams away, a mom, a daughter, and a wife
If tears could cure this heartache, then we would be ok
For you would be back here with us, each and every day

But you are with our Lord now, and all is not in vain
For you will fill his need now, according to his plan
And we are left with memories that death cannot take away
We will hold on to them tightly forever and a day

And we will tell your children, what the lord puts in our hearts
And try to answer the questions that tear us all apart
Little Logan wants to know why he can't be an angel too
Going to heaven would be ok, as long as he had you

And Brookelyn has the blue eyes, you always wanted in a child
Though you never got to see them, I know they'd make you smile
Jessilyn tries so very hard to fill her mommy's shoes
To take care of her Daddy and her brother and sister too

I know you would be proud of them if you could only see
Your babies are all ok, I'm keeping them with me
And we will tell them stories about their Mommy's love
And how she always watches them from her home above.
Copyright © 2007 Marilyn Turk
Submitted by Courtany G., Age 17 --- Florida
This lovely poem was written by my Step Aunt and has to do with her son's wife and her grandchildren, family & friends.

It's been almost three months sense my mom passed away. She was hit by a car while riding her motorcycle during Biketoberfest. She was always a kind and loving person. She was my hero in life and my role model as well. She was never happy until she made sure that everyone else around her was first.

At her service, one of her friends came up and made a speech and said, "A candle that shines twice as bright burns half as long."

Every day this saying is making more and more sense to me. During her service, I passed out cards that had a picture of my mom and a couple of quotes that my mom liked. Here are the quotes:


"In the end, its not going to matter how many breaths you took, but how many moments took your breath away."

"When life gives you a hundred reasons to cry, show life that you have a thousand reasons to smile."

"When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and regretfully upon the closed door that do not see the one that has opened for us."

Written in 2008 by Molly W. Age 15 --- Florida

"Night may be upon you, but daylight will come. The yoke may be heavy now, but he will take it off. Tears may be falling now, but laughter is on the way. Fear may be all around you, but know that it cannot control you! Another day, another opportunity, another dream, another trial, another tribulation! Make today for him!"
Copyright © 2008 Mark Villanti

"TATAY" (My Father)
To you, Tatay

As a father you had been a good provider
As in my younger age you let me see how life seems to be
You let me taste good life & wealth
You never let me Envy to anybody
But perhaps, you let anybody envy me for having father like you

In my midst of my childhood everything in me is given
Even if it's never been ask for
You let me have wonderful & fabulous birthday parties
Wherein others can't have
Then suddenly, in a middle of my childhood
You got sick & your bad health condition made a threat to your life

As of that, I, as a kid in a corner of the Grotto, praying for your life saved
Then suddenly a miracle, "GOD hears my prayer", you were healed

As I approach my teen age, still everything is given
You taught me principles in life
On how to be a better person
You had guided me in your own simple way

As in my adulthood...
Maybe then, we had shared conflicts
But we manage to settle it in a side, with a bottle of beer

We had been friends

From a father, to an enemy, a model, an idol, and then a Best Friend
That's what we are

We shared laughters, gossips, pains & tears
You had provided my needs
You had accepted me for who I am & the people surrounds me
In spite of my weaknesses, & downfall
You had been proud of me

And then, now, DEATH strikes in you so sudden
I ask God, "WHY YOU?" for I say, "HOW" can I go on life without you?
"WHERE" to start? "WHICH" pieces shattered all over should I pick first?

But then, "God" made HIS own purpose
Maybe for me to stand firm, to be strong without you
And to be a responsible one

Many words to say, but words are not enough
And even I can't find the right words to define you
How GOOD a father you are

THANK YOU TATAY, FOR EVERYTHING

We will cherish every moment we've shared with you
The Jollibee, Panindahan every Sunday in Lipunan
Grocery in Gaisano once a month
And Tambay chicka-chicka in Tambakan every afternoon

You're in good hands now with Lola Vacion, Lolo Tawe, & Jesus
You're home with HIM
You may not even be a perfect father
But you are the BEST FATHER TO ME & TO US
We will miss you so much, Tatay & WE LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!
Written by Marie Con Tullo --- Philippines
This is for the memory of my father "MANUEL TULLO JR." who passed away July 23, 2007. I will always love you, Tatay. I miss you so much.

Four months, two weeks and five days ago, the love of my life died. He battled with the demons in his head for so long, and on September 18, 2007, he ended that battle and took his own life. I'm left trying to make sense of something I know in my heart I can't.

Today has been a really hard day and I stumbled across this story. It helped me a bit, so I hope it can help someone else too.

The Tea Cup

The story is told of a couple who went to England to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary and shopped at a beautiful antique store. They both liked antiques and pottery, and especially teacups, and so spotting an exceptional cup, they asked, "May we see that? We've never seen a cup quite so beautiful."

As the lady handed it to them, suddenly the teacup spoke...

"You don't understand, I have not always been a teacup. There was a time when I was just a lump of red clay. My master took me and rolled me pounded and patted me over and over and I yelled out, 'Don't do that. I don't like it! Leave me alone!' "

But the master only smiled and gently said, "Not yet!"

"Then, WHAM! I was placed on a spinning wheel and suddenly I was spun around and around and around. Stop it! I'm getting so dizzy! I'm going to be sick," I screamed.

But the master only nodded and said quietly,"Not yet."

"He spun me and poked and prodded and bent me out of shape to suit himself and then.....he put me in the oven. I never felt such heat. I yelled and knocked and pounded at the door. Help! Get me out of here!"

Again he said, "Not yet."

"When I thought I couldn't bear it another minute, the door opened. He carefully took me out and put me on the shelf, and I began to cool. Oh, that felt so good! Ah, this is much better," I thought. "But after I cooled he picked me up and he brushed and painted me all over. The fumes were horrible. Oh, please, Stop it! Stop it!" I cried.

He only shook his head and said,"Not yet."

"Then suddenly he put me back into the oven. Only it was not like the first time. This time it was twice as hot and I just knew I would suffocate. I begged... I pleaded... I screamed...I cried... I was convinced I would ever make it.

I was ready to give up and just then the door opened and he took me out and again placed me on the shelf, where I cooled and waited and waited, wondering: What's he going to do to me next? An hour later he handed me a mirror and said..."

"Look at yourself."

"And I did..".

"I said, That's not me, that couldn't be me. It's beautiful. I'm beautiful!"

"Quietly he spoke, 'I want you to remember,' then he said..."

"I know it hurt to be rolled and pounded and patted, but had I just left you alone, you'd have dried up. I know it made you dizzy to spin around on the wheel, but if I had stopped you would have crumbled.

I know it hurt and it was hot and disagreeable in the oven, but if I hadn't put you there you would have cracked. I know the fumes were bad when I brushed and painted you all over, but if I hadn't done that you never would have hardened. You would not have had any color in your life.

And if I hadn't put you back in that second oven, you wouldn't have survived for long because the hardness would not have held. Now you are a finished product. Now you are what I had in mind when I first began with you."

The moral of this story is this: The Lord knows what He's doing for each of us; He is the potter, and we are His clay. He will mold us and make us, and expose us to just enough pressures of just the right kinds that we may be made into a flawless piece of work to fulfill His good, pleasing and perfect will.

So when life seems hard, and you are being pounded and patted and pushed almost beyond endurance; when your world seems to be spinning out of control; when you feel like you are in a fiery furnace of trials; when life seems too hard to bear, try this....

Brew a cup of your favorite tea in your prettiest tea cup, sit down and have a little talk with the Potter.

"I will love the light for it shows me the way, yet, I will endure the darkness for it shows me the stars."

Author Unknown
Submitted by Heather F. --- New Jersey
I selected this because it was the only thing I've seen that has made me stop crying for at least a few minutes.....

Sometimes you never truly understand grief until it hits you hard in the face; with its cold and shocking reality... your loved one is no more. The pain of separation is real and unbearable.

I've grieved in the past month with close family friends who lost their beloved Dad. I watched the tears, the anger, the tough questions and the deep, heart-wrenching sorrow.

But I've also watched their courage and their resolve to seek joy through the pain and unite in love and as one family to get through it together; to make their Dad proud and to forever cherish the memories and the legacy he left behind.

For all those who grieve a loved one today, know that you will pull through somehow. One day at a time, it gets easier. Know that they are always with you in spirit; loving you and hoping for the best and trusting that you will keep on embracing life and making the most of it.

Even if the time you had with them was too short, cherish the memories and through them find the strength and courage to move on one step at a time. Seek joy through your pain.
Written in 2008 by Dinah Hanson --- Ghana

"When one who you love passes away, remember not the one day he succumbed to death, but the thousands he lived."
Author Unknown
Submitted by Robert Truce --- United Kingdom
I remember a man telling me this after my uncle's death; it brought hope back into my heart. I hope it brings it to others as well.

To Those I Love and Those Who Love Me

When I am gone, release me, let me go.
You have so many things to see and do.
You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears.
Be happy that we had so many years.

I gave you my love, you can only guess,
How much you gave me in happiness.
I thank you for the love you each have shown,
But now it's time I traveled on alone.

So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must.
Then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It's only a while that we must part,
So bless the memories within your heart.

I won't be far away, for life goes on.
So if you need me, call and I will hear.
Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near.
And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear,
All of my love around you soft and clear.

And then, when you must come this way,
I'll greet you with a smile and say
"Welcome Home"
Author Unknown
Submitted by Terri Wyatt

Life - What's Wrong With It?

I see life in so dark colors that I can't tell when it is a good day and when it is a bad day. I find betrayal with every footstep I make, therefore I have a lot trouble trusting people. Sometimes I think that after all, life is a every day struggle that will hunt as from the moment we are born till the moment we die.

I see children every day fighting for just a piece of food. I wonder, myself, if this is the life that we are suppose to live while others sleep in their comfortable beds and get their meals done every morning by someone else, choose whatever suits them to eat while kids out there don't even have a portion of their royal meals?

I see kids all the time looking through the window of McDonalds and yet never get the chance to eat there. Tell me is this justice? Because to me it seems like the society has forgotten about them. I just would like to say that the world is not a good place to live as long as there is injustice ruling.
Written by Elmedina A.
Submitted by Elona A., Age 16 --- Macedonia
Comments

IT'S ME

I know your eyes can't look into mine,
Like we wish we could do much more.
But now I see you from a different view,
Even more beautiful than before.

I want you to know I will be with you
Further than eyes can see.
When you hold your sleeping baby and don't want to let go,
That feeling, that is me.

In the winter, when snow is hugging the ground,
And the icicles twinkle from the trees,
Then the sun shines upon the glittery snow,
That sparkle, that is me.

In the spring, you know how the air, it's sweet,
And the flowers sway in the warm breeze.
When that breeze blows gently across your baby's hair,
And he smiles, well that is me.

In the summer when the warm clear sky is bold
And you're lying with your eyes closed by the sea,
That smile you get when you feel sun on your face,
That warmth, that is me.

In the autumn, this is your favorite time,
The crisp colors, how much prettier can it be?
When the sun starts to set, you'll see a magnificent glow,
That comfort, that is me.

Don't ever feel like you're all alone,
Not even for one short day,
I'm always going to be here you see,
I'm only a prayer away.
Copyright © 2008 Kristen Wingate
I hope this poem will bring comfort to all who read it

"So close to yesterday, so far away from today."
Written in 2008 by Amy Napier --- Arizona
I wrote this about people focusing on the past so much that they can't see today.

For seven years, I was unable to visit my mother. She was living in Indonesia and I was living in Australia. The only way to hear her voice was to call long distance and that cost too much to call every day.

Finally, I have time and all I need to see her but when I got there, I found her very sick. I asked her why she didn't inform me. She said that she didn't want me to worry. Quickly I called a taxi to take her to the hospital.

I couldn't stay because conditions at that time, in my native country Indonesia, were not good and the country where I was living as a citizen (Australia) called all citizens to come back as soon as possible. So, after seven years, I only got to see my mother for two days because I had to return to where I lived.

After my return, four days later, I received a phone call from my sister that God had called my mother.

At that moment, I couldn't say anything, I couldn't think anything. I just stood up with phone in my hand and millions of regrets hit my heart hard.

I didn't even say sorry to my mother when I met her again. I didn't even buy something for her. I didn't even have time to say what I wanted to say. Every day I asked myself, "When was the last time I saw my mother smile at me?"

She was a good mother. She spent her life dedicated to her husband and all her children. I'm sure God agreed with that. She was a good mother, a very good mother. Her name was "Jochbeth Rumahlaeselan Pangalila".
Written in 2004 by Johni Pangalila
I wrote this 5 years after God called my mother.

I know how many things teens have read about how they need to heal with they lose loved ones. Well, I lost my brother a couple months ago. It happened 5 days before he turned 19.

He was driving his boss's car, a Corvette naturally. He was showing off for his buddy in the car and lost complete control going 110 on a road with a speed limit of 40. Yes, he made a bad decision but we have to accept that all teenagers have made bad decisions in their life. So I write this to tell everyone that's a teenager out there to live on.

The worst thing in the world is to stop living. Because before you know it, you'll have wasted half your life away moping around. The one who you've lost would want you to move on; not completely forget about them but live your life as they would've lived theirs.

This especially goes out to the ones who lost teenage friends or family. They made a mistake and you have to live with that but I doubt you'll make the same now.

So live your life to the fullest. Make every day count. Whether it's Monday or Friday, have a good one. It you're not entirely happy one day, try your best to brighten someone else's. Soon after that, your day will have changed to a good one.

I would know; I've done this a million times.

Whenever I'm upset, I don't let anyone share my burden of the pain. They don't need to have a bad day because I'm having one. So enjoy life and hold the ones you love the most close to your hearts. You never know when theirs or your day will come when you move on.
Written in 2008 by Stephanie D., Age 16 --- Missouri

A Beautiful Memory

My father and I always shared a love for animals and as I was growing up, I was always bringing home stray animals. We both enjoyed taking care of them and nurtured them till they were healthy.

Our enthusiasm wasn't shared by the rest of the family but that was ok. This was my father's and my special time together.

Not too long ago, my father got progressively ill with Alzheimer's, and eventually we had to place him a home. It was a sad day for all of us, but we understood that the father that we knew, left us a long time ago; the illness that had taken over.

At the home, I was very much pleased when I learned that they had pet therapy for their patients. I was thrilled with this and asked the nurses if I would be able to share these moments with my father.

I saw the look on my father's face when these cats, or a rabbit, or a beautiful golden retriever came in to see him, and I was so touched. He smiled with the biggest smile … bringing tears to my eyes. When we would look at each other, I would think that our special bond was there, loving animals and loving each other. These were the happiest days for me.

Shortly after this, a beautiful stray tabby cat would appear in our backyard and approach my children and me in a very friendly manner. She looked well groomed and clean but she didn't have any collar around her neck. Eventually we brought her to a vet to see if somebody lost her because there were no posters or data indicating that this cat was lost.

The vet confirmed that she seemed very friendly and administered all the shots that were required. We brought her home to my house and immediately all of us fell in love with her. She was such a joy !!!

Shortly after that my father passed away, peacefully. We helped my mother move his things and she decided to give his favorite chair to me, his only daughter. I was moved and the chair sits rightfully in the family room, in the center where it belongs.

When we left the room, we had noticed that the cat was looking at the chair and finally flung herself up to sit in it. Since that day, and everyday, our lovely cat finds this chair her place as part of our family.

Could it be that my father, who loved me and shared his love of animals with me, sent this lovely cat to my family? I'd like to believe so. And as we sit down in the evenings to relax, we make sure that the "favorite" chair is always available so that our lovely cat can sleep on it.
Copyright © 2008 Roma Jur
This is a true story about my father who passed away in Dec 2007; we shared a very special love and I have cherished the times that we were able to spend together. This is the only story I have ever written.

JESSIE'S PIECE

The world's a jigsaw, once I thought,
With each of us a piece to fit,
A predetermined Grand Design
And each of us a part of it.

I thought that God must surely have
A blueprint of His final goal,
And all who come into this life
Are meant to play some fated role.

But when my little Jessie died,
It seemed to me but sheer caprice.
Where fits a child in God's design
Who never lived to add her piece?

How often did I walk alone
To still the anguish in my heart,
To ask why God would make a plan
In which my child has no part.

One day, upon a village square,
I happened by a tiny shop.
What random step had led me there?
What in the window made me stop?

It was a quilt, a crazy quilt,
Each piece a brightly-colored patch,
A joyful, glowing work of art
From scraps you'd think would never match.

I looked upon the quilt in awe
To think a thing so oddly fine
Was stitched from fragments never made
To fit to anyone's design.

I wondered then if God might wish
That in this way His world be built,
Each life a motley-colored scrap,
And He the weaver of the quilt.

If such be true, I realize,
My child's life, though short it be,
Is yet a joyful, shining patch
In God's eternal tapestry.

I looked upon the quilt and saw
A patch that seemed but sheer caprice,
So whimsical it made me smile.
I knew it was my Jessie's piece.
Copyright © 2008 Robert Brault
I wrote the poem this year (2008), shortly after the death of a neighbor's child.

Life Isn't Fair

I wished so much that it could be
If only I could give you back
All the love you gave to me

I miss you so
So much Mommy
This is just so hard for me

I hear your laugh,
I hear your voice
And your face is all I can see

Every tear I cry
Is now just a memory
A reminder of all the love
All the love you ever gave to me

Now you're gone and I miss you so much
And I don't know
Until we meet in Heaven
I'll always be missing you

As a tear rolls down my cheek
I look up to the sky
I can't bring myself to say it
I just can't tell you
GOOD-BYE
Author Unknown
Submitted by Grace Guzman --- Texas
My mom just passed away on Mach 5th 2008. She and my dad were struck on their motorcycle on their way to have dinner out on a sunny day. My mom was everything to me and my family. I would talk to my mom and dad every night before I went to bed since I just moved from home, not too long ago. My mom was always so worried about me living miles away from home. She would call me and if I wouldn't pick up, she would call and call and call until I would finally.

I don't ever think my life will be the same without her in it. She was my only best friend and will always be in my heart forever. Mom, you were my everything, One day we will be together again. Till that day comes, you are in my heart forever. Rest in Peace

We've all lost, lost a little, lost a lot, lost it all.
But on each of those occasions, it's not if we lost,
Rather if we knew to stand up tall.

For life has many low valleys, many deep waters,
And for everyone, a sad sad song.

But fear not, after every sad song will come another joyful one,
All you need to do is hold steady and let it play along.
For every piece of life is worth experiencing
And seeing it continue on.

It is after all, the life experience,
And at that, one as precious and beautiful
As sitting out on the open American plain
And watching the country's morning dawn.

Stand tall, raise your head up high,
And look out on the horizon,
At a new day, a new America,
A country free and strong.

This is the land of opportunity,
The home of the brave,
And a place where you belong.
Copyright © 2008 K. Canadic --- Ontario, Canada
For all those who have lost someone in the war.

"A stirring sound of words creates lives wrapped in sadness. Broken hearts and swollen eyes are found amongst the wreckage. Prayers are whispered as love attempts to heal emotional wounds. We are without words to describe our loss, but we are bountiful with hope that life will go on. The only way to discover happiness through tragedy is to realize that he is home, in a better place than here on earth. Our love will continue with him in our hearts."
Copyright © 2008 Heather Quay
My fiance's brother was killed in a car accident while on Border Patrol serving our country in San Diego, California. He was 28 years old and left behind his wife and his 17 month old baby. I wrote this on our way to the airport to fly to California just a few hours after hearing the news. It was my way of dealing with the sadness and the heartache. His mother asked me to read this at his funeral. I thought it may help someone else who lost a loved one deal with the pain of a broken heart.

I wrote this quite some time back, yet today, I would like to share with all my friends who have suffered some loss at any point of time in life.

I would only like to say... I understand.

There's someone in my life
Who never learnt how to talk
Never learnt how to walk
But ran the fastest and went away
Without having anything to say
He just went away

I wonder where is he
Why he took that journey
I think of him and live in grief
I now live with a firm belief
That this is not life
Having a brother, sister or a wife
There is much more to it

When looking for answers
There is a wall I hit
But I have that optimism
That through my question's prism
I would find the one who ran the fastest

In all circumstances
I would do my best
To run to the one
Who just ran away
Without having anything to say
He just went away

I miss you, Samby
Luv, Papa
Sambhav's Papa (Naresh Milani)
"HE" is my son Sambhav, who left us when he was here only for 5 months and three weeks. He is gone with my father on the same day. I am awed and full of grief because of this in my life and life, in a way, has lost its meaning almost in every way except for the questions I have... Why and Where?

"You can shed tears that she is gone, or you can smile because she has lived. You can close your eyes and pray that she'll come back, or you can open your eyes and see all she's left. Your heart can be empty because you can't see her, or you can be full of the love 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 her only that she is gone, or you can cherish her memory and let it live on. You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back. Or you can do what she'd want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on."
David Harkins
Submitted by Erin F. --- Washington, D.C.
My mom passed away almost 6 months ago. She lived in Florida and I live in DC. I got a phone call that she was in the hospital and her liver was failing. I got on a plane first thing the next morning and cried the whole way there.

Something in my heart told me she wasn't going to be okay this time. She was on life support by the time I got there and I never got the chance to hear her voice again.

My siblings and I, who are even younger than me, had to make the choice to take her off life support and let her go. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. My mom wasn't perfect, but no one is. She was a wonderful woman and loved my brother, sister and I more than anything in this world.

I have a lot of regrets... not spending more time with her, not helping her more, etc. Deep down I know that she's at rest now though.

I still have a hard time accepting that she is really gone though and will never see me get married, she'll never meet my future children, we'll never get to go skydiving together like we always planned. I miss her everyday and I love her more than words can say.

As hard as it is, I read this poem and I know that it's how she'd want me to be. She still wants me to be happy and as hard as it is, I am trying to be okay.