Yesterday is a dream, tomorrow but a vision. But today well-lived makes every yesterday a dream of happiness, and every tomorrow a vision of hope. Look well, therefore to this day. Or perhaps you prefer this version: Look to this day, The very life of life, In its brief course lies all, The realities and […]

To my dear family and friends, Thank-you for all the love and blessings you’ve sent my way since my death. You see…I’ve received them all! For I am with you still. It’s such a special feeling to know I have loved ones as wonderful as you. So on this special day—on this very special day—I […]

Poetry is a wonderful way to express your feelings on Valentine’s Day (or any time). I came across a beautiful Valentine’s poem dedicated to a deceased child (and sent by a little white dove—on the wings of love) from a parent. It’s called Valentines…to Heaven. (If you click on the link, have your music on […]

When we are grieving, Valentine’s Day can be a reminder that our loved one is absent. If this is your first holiday since your loved one passed away, acknowledge in advance how difficult it is going to be. (Even if your partner or beloved died a long time ago, Valentine’s Day can still be difficult!) […]

When my oldest sister, Cindy James, died, it was beyond my comprehension as to how I could possibly imagine living my life with her not in it. How was I supposed to get through any of the holidays or special days when they all brought back reminders of her absence? Yes, even Valentine’s Day…I would […]

Let me come in where you are weeping, friend, And let me take your hand. I, who have known a sorrow such as yours, can understand. Let me come in–I would be very still beside you in your grief; I would not bid you cease your weeping, friend, Tears bring relief. Let me come in–and […]

If you haven’t cried as an expression of your grief and you have a lot of pent up emotions, try it…see how it feels. Chances are you’ll feel better. It doesn’t mean you are weak if you cry. Crying isn’t just for babies. You won’t get hysterical. Your body will know when to stop: Right […]

When I was grieving the death of my sister Cindy I rarely allowed myself to cry during the day when I was in public or had to meet someone. If I was in front of other people, I held back (I felt vulnerable, uncomfortable, exposed). And if I held back for an extended period of […]

After my sister, Cindy James (Cynthia Hack), died, I cried a lot of emotional tears, and at unexpected times: When I wrote to a family member or a friend and “talked” about Cindy or how I’d changed as a result of her death or what I’d learned. When I did something that I knew Cindy […]

When you feel you are ready—when the ache and rage and numbness no longer makes it seem like a senseless intrusion—I want you to read this: You have been missed by death, but someone you love has been hit. You have embarked upon one of the toughest things we must do in life. Go on. […]