When your child screams in terror, you pull her close and make her feel safe.
When your child succeeds you feel proud.
When your child fails you offer support.
When your child speaks up for herself, you applaud her bravery.
When your child can't find her voice, you guide her.
When your child is giving, you receive it well.
When your child is selfish, you model good character for her.
When your child is lonely, you show her how to connect.
When your child grows up, you hope she'll nurture her child the same way.
This is your gift to her.
And along the way you may discover this is the same gift you can give to your inner child.
Today I am participating in “The Golden Sky” Blog Fest. Elisa from The Crazy Life of a Writing Mom will be publishing her book, “The Golden Sky” tomorrow, November 18th. I am so excited about getting this book. If you’ve read Elisa’s blog then you know what a genuine, caring, beautiful, unique person she is. I imagine her book will be just as compelling as the stories she shares on a day to day basis with us all. Sharing her journey of losing her precious baby Zeke was not easy, but true to form, she did it in hopes that others who have suffered similar losses would find healing in her words.
Elisa, congratulations! This is your time to shine!
To participate in the blog fest she requested we write a story as a tribute to someone we’ve lost. I must admit, I’m having a hard time with this post. I have been fortunate enough in my life not to have unexpectedly lost a loved one. I had time to let these people know I cherished them, I had time for goodbyes (a rare gift). The losses were sad, but not tragic. Most of my losses were of my grandparents and I still carry the memories of the times I had with them…they’re a part of me. I came from them.
Over the past few years I've reconnected with my "inner child". Much of her life was spent feeling lost, and that was no way to live. I grieved her loss. I had to learn to love her with the same love that I give my own child. Along the way I think I may have just become a better person for it.
I'm looking forward to 2 days of wonderful posts--LIKE THIS ONE!!
ReplyDeleteElisa deserves it--& so much more!
I also did my post and also had a difficult time with it.
ReplyDeleteI hope we can still make her proud. :) Well done Stephanie.
At first I didn't know what to post, but then I just went where it took me and yeah I have no problem connecting with my inner child..haha
ReplyDeleteSteph, I love what you wrote today. You did such a beautiful job. Thank you for your comment on my blog. It meant a lot. :)
ReplyDeleteWonderful sentiment, Stephanie. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI thought this was great! I, one day, hope to be able to do all of those things for my daughter. Until then, I will nurture and guide my inner child. I've been reading your comments on Elisa's and Melynda's blogs for a while now, and I finally decided to follow you! :)
ReplyDeleteThis is what makes our different 'loss' stories unique and beautiful. Thank you for sharing your part!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the comments. I wasn't sure how this post would be received. I really have struggled with writing this week.
ReplyDeleteThis is BEAUTIFUL, Stephanie! Wonderfully well-thought out and articulated as gently and beautifully as only you are capable of. In my own life, I too have not experienced any tragic loss. Sad losses, yes, but all expected and with no guilt attached. As I am rapidly nearing 57, I count myself most fortunate. I, too, have found myself unable to easily contribute to Elisa's blogfest, but, unlike you, I have not dug deep to do so anyway. I have, however, gained great insight from the incredibly moving stories of the losses others have suffered and survived. I feel privileged to have been able to share in their stories and hope I've grown in compassion and understanding. You are doing a marvellous job with your little girl! Big hug for you both xoxo
ReplyDeleteWhat a thoughtful and beautiful post. You are a gem. I'm so glad to know you. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteWONDERFUL AND BEAUTIFUL! This is one of my faves. How lovely.
ReplyDeleteClowning is a great way to let that inner child shine through I have found ;).
ReplyDeletei read it twice after your surprise ending. a gift indeed.
ReplyDelete:)
thanks fer your note at my place. you know, it is a little frustrating not being able to blog more regularly while doing this intense full time volunteering i'm doing. looking forward to catching up on your posts...
Thanks for popping by my place today kiddo. I really appreciate it; and congratulations on your reconnection. I wish more of us could do the same.
ReplyDelete"When your child speaks up for herself, you applaud her bravery." My favorite line :) I'm a new follower by the way :)
ReplyDeleteYour post is really thoughtful. I have to say I give my inner child a lot of candy. I don't know if that really counts for rewards though. Great post. I'm a new follower.
ReplyDeleteDear Stephanie,
ReplyDeleteI seem to be commenting on many blogs today after Desiree has been there and read and commented. Her comments reflects my own admiration of how you responded to Elisa's invitation to blog on loss. The truth is that so frequently we are lost within ourselves and the finding out of who we are is a great gift. Your reflective and poignant blog today gifts me. Thank you.
Peace.
Thanks for giving us bloggers some great thoughts and memories.
ReplyDelete