Dear Poetbay Friends, 

I am trying to make my way through this thing called grief. It is a strange and unpredictable companion. I have never felt this kind of grief before. I've lost both my parents, even a very young niece and nephew and their mother through murder many years ago, but this grief of losing my child is strange and very private. The pain pulls from my soul. I have faith, and I know one day I will see him again, but I miss him now. I missed him yesterday, on Mother's Day, sending me a message, hearing his voice, or even perhaps getting his warm all embracing hug.

These tears are silent now but they well up and flow without warning. There must be an eternal spring of them inside my broken heart. Today, I am sad. Tomorrow I may not be if I am occupied with things to do for my other children and grandchildren or even if I can help someone around me. It seems the more I give out, the more I am filled up with blessings.

Thank each of you who have reached out  with your kindness and concern for me during this time of sorrow. I know we are separated by miles upon miles in reality but through love and friendship we are united and close in our hearts and minds. We've never met face to face but through our poetry and love of it, we share a common bond. Because of this, I can come here and write you this letter to let you know how much I appreciate each of you and tell you that I thank God for the privilege of being a member of the Poetbay family. 

Sincerely,

Kathy