There isn't any power that would alter the love we have for our dear son, though I know in my heart the grief of wanting to look into his eyes and hear his laughter is powerfully waiting. This loss is only something temporarily suspended in time. I know without a shadow of a doubt we will once again see him and smile together in heaven. I have this hope and there aren't any holes in the ship we sail on it will not sink. It remains afloat even in the misty-eyed storms of life. This is my solace, a reality in the garden of my soul. Heaven is as real as the fragrance of a rose and as magnificent as a mountain range.
My sweet wife lights a candle to Michael at bedtime and speaks a prayer to the heavens. There are powerful reminders of his life here on earth like the music he embraced and the forests he so much loved to walk. My wife still has the tee shirt he wore - unwashed - and his scent is a reminder that brings her closer to the eternity that lies ahead.
I would say to those who are temporarily separated from a loved one to shower your despair with hope like a gentle rain - for the sun will one day shine bright as the smiles and tears of joy we greet them with in the blessed reunion.
God bless all with strength of spirt