Heavy, gray clouds; wet, cold rain; winters in the Pacific Northwest can be long and lonely. The promise of spring is a faraway thought. But just as winter engulfs us now, spring is peeking around the corner. Daffodils will bravely break the hard ground, colorful tulip cups will catch spring showers, and slowly but surely, trees will bud, birds will sing and the sun will shine.
We have all encountered unspeakable pain in the loss of our child, and the seasons of recovery may also seem overwhelmingly dark and cold. Through this tremendous trauma, each of us finds a way to survive—a strength many could not imagine, yet here we are. Each day, season, and year that we survive beyond that unforgettable day, I believe our children nurture the seeds of love they planted in our hearts; and it is this enduring love that helps us discover life again.
Spring is often known as the “season of hope”. Yes, there will still be spring showers (just as there will always be a tear for our loved ones), but they are often punctuated by breathtaking rainbows stretching across the heavens and the promise of blue skies once again. The air seems lighter and fresher, filled with floral aromas and the scent of ‘life’!
As we close out these last weeks of winter and look ahead to brighter days, my wish to all families is that you celebrate your strength, honor your tears, and share a word of hope and support to others who are newly bereaved. May we all find spring in our hearts!
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