fbpx

Activity

  • Dear Grandpa

    Dear Grandpa,
    It’s been 11 years snice you’ve gone. I can still remember the night being so peaceful, so still, and so cold. I remember the day we laid you to rest. The snowflakes that fell that day were the biggest ones I’ve ever seen. I wanted to be one of the few who go to carry you to your final resting place, but I watched instead as my brother, cousin, brother in law, and a few others carried you instead.

    I’ll never forget when my 18th birthday rolled around and I eagerly went to the gas station and bought a can of your grizzly wintergreen chewing tobacco. I took it to you grave and had lunch with you. The sun was shining and I was happy enough even though you weren’t with me anymore.

    You were my best friend. The amount of days I skipped school just to hang out with you nearly cost me my graduation. The people at school frowned upon the week I missed when you passed. Said I shouldn’t have been gone that long and that I needed to be there from then on. What was I supposed to say? Grief has no time limit and I wasn’t capable of dragging myself out of bed to go be around people who never understood me. You always did though.

    I wonder what you would think of me now. Would you still be proud of me? Would you still be able to sit in silence with me and just watch the tv? Would you still be able to look me in the eyes and tell me everything was going to be ok? You were my safe place in this world and even though it has been 11 years my heart still hurts. I yearn to hear your laugh, see your smile, and feel the warmth of your hugs.

    I love and miss you so much, Grandpa.

    Courtney

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Awww Courtney! This is so sweet. Your grandpa is definitely proud of you and definitely still watching over you.

      My grandpa died when I was 13. We have the same personality and we are the only two people in our family that are very athletic – so I know I got it from him. When I was younger he would tell me rain was good luck. So after he died,…read more

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Jake shared a letter in the Group logo of Remembering those we lost/GriefRemembering those we lost/Grief group 3 weeks ago

    MLT I 💜 you!

    Mikaela Lauren Tick,

    March 7th is your birthday. I was planning to post this on the 6th, as it would fit the theme… premature, or just because this is so hard to get through that I wanted to do it early.

    Then again, it is the 6th in California, where my sister lives – who is due to give birth on the 9th.

    So, who knows, she can be getting contractions as I write this! .

    Hello future Weber,

    For future comparison, please note: the line below details what time this sentence was written:
    Sentence was completed at 9:33 pm 3.6.24 (PST)

    I will see you soon!

    Love,

    Uncle Jakey💜

    Anyway, back to the premature thing.

    MLT YOU💜 ME because I was born prematurely at 1lbs 13 oz, giving me cerebral palsy – It feels really weird to be talking about myself in YOUR bday card, CONVENIENTLY weird!

    Your favorite thing to do was to ASK me how I was doing and there to share all the moments with me🥲

    Alright, let us get back to MYSELF🤔 I think that would make everyone happy😂

    In all seriousness, you ARE at your HAPPIEST when the attention is on others. I’ll take it and run!

    Our relationship iS STILL as close as ever!

    I may not be able to physically hug you, but I know YOU ARE STILL HERE because I see the signs:

    Whether it’s with family or things that I do, I do NOT doubt that you did not have anything to do with Lexi, finding a Jeffrey, Ryan finding a Pamela (I’m a little upset with that one because there is only one Pamela Tick, but that’s ok, Pamela’s maiden name is Katz (like Nanny Sheila’s)!

    Me:
    The Unsealed with LAUREN, my psychologist —who has a disability, and lost a cousin, my best friend, Mack, who I met at a special Olympics event!

    In these ways, YOU ARE IMPACTING EVERYONE, ESPECIALLY ME, SHOWING ME, that love can be experienced by ANYONE, ANYWHERE, disability or not!

    I would say, until we see each other next time, but I see you EVERYDAY!

    Until I can give you a PHYSICAL HUG, sending all of them up into HEAVEN! That and a Black & White Cookie for Papa Donald!

    💜

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Hey Jake, I hope your sister’s delivery goes smoothly. I know your presence is felt every day, and your impact on everyone’s lives is undeniable.

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • I Am Most Like My Dad When….

    I hated my dad’s classes. He would take out his “Black Tapes”, his Black Law books, and his printed-out thick packets of information from whatever minister or professor he liked then and turn on his computer. It was only occasionally, but the topics of our history always left me feeling uneasy. As I’ve grown, I realized it wasn’t his fault the topics were oppressive to deal with, but I am fortunate he tried to prepare me for the outside world I was entering.

    He is good at that.

    I was homeschooled and in one of our many classes, I remember he made my brother and I draw a circle on the page in front of us and write these words.

    “The space inside this circle represents my realm of knowledge. All that I think I know about whatever I think know is depicted right here within this circle! I must keep in mind that there is more to know than what is within the circumference of my awareness.”

    I admired his way of storing and sharing information. His eyes lit up when he had the chance to but other times, he just kept his head in a book or focused on the new installment of monitors on his desk; only to interact again when his friends were around. The people who seemed to matter most.

    What he does to me, I do to him. Even though in the deepest parts of our hearts all we want to do is hug each other. We choose to dance around it. We hurt each other, but we do it with love. I know it makes no sense, yet it’s true. I say nothing to protect us and he tells me nothing to keep my image of him from being damaged forever.

    Everything he taught me I absorbed. I stood on a podium and to 300 people. I told them that quote he told me. I made them make a circle with their hands and recite these words, again.

    “The space inside this circle represents my realm of knowledge. All that I think I know about whatever I think know is depicted right here within this circle! I must keep in mind that there is more to know than what is within the circumference of my awareness.”

    I saw him watch me and I could feel how proud he was without having to look. There are moments when I love him with my whole heart and there are moments when I can’t because it hurts. But I always listen to him, just like I know he listens to me.

    I love you in the way rain always escapes the forecast. It surprises me how much I always forget my umbrella. I love you and it’s hard because it’s hard to love myself sometimes.

    We talk and clash because we both want to be right and since he can’t respond I will part with a piece of his song:

    A baby boy, amazing grace. The 20th of July, a special day. A father’s smile and mother’s tear. Through that special reunion, I appear. So full of life and so many dreams. Raised in the ghetto the eldest of three.

    This sounds like me:

    A baby girl, amazing grace. The 25th of July, a special day. A father’s smile and mother’s tear. Through that special reunion, I appear. So full of life and so many dreams. Raised in the ghetto the youngest of three.

    And this part sounds like us:

    Plans were made to visit Grandma and them. But underneath pops’ wings is where you’ll find me. Right before bed was the best of times. I swear moms can read a book and make it come to life. But maybe life pressure got to Mom and Dad. Made them change directions from the ones they had. Buckets of tears running down my face as I watch in pain my hero’s separating.

    But with me and you, there are no separations.

    Kayla Dior

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Thank you Kayla for sharing your heartfelt letter. It’s clear that your relationship with your dad is complex and filled with both love and challenges. Despite the difficulties, it’s clear that there is a deep bond between you two.
      Your dad’s approach to teaching and sharing knowledge is admirable. The circle exercise he had you do, showing the…read more

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

      • I appreciate you taking the time to read my work! He is truly someone I admire despite as you put it the difficulties. It’s an exercise I come back to often. I hope to encourage others not to forget there is always more to know than we realize.

        Write me back 

        Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Angel (second chance) to my rainbow 🌈 baby

    I pray God send you back to me
    I loved you before I knew you
    I still love you
    Stink-stink
    My boo boo
    I will always love you
    You would have been 7 years old
    Some friends tell me Happy mothers day
    I smile to cover up the pain that’s inside of me
    It’s hard for me to open up to explain to others what happened
    I wish I knew what you would have looked like
    Still wonder if you were going to be a baby boy “Legend”
    Or a “Diamond” princess
    I wish I knew your favorite toy
    Your favorite cartoon
    favorite food
    favorite fruit
    favorite veggie
    favorite ice cream
    favorite hobby
    favorite color
    favorite book
    I know uncle Jimmy would have been your favorite uncle
    Sherice & Klanice your favorite twin aunties
    All I wanted was the best for you
    Lead you in the right direction
    I wanted you to have a father
    That knew the definition of being a father
    And act on it
    I was so happy when I confirmed I was due 3/30/2017
    But I was scared too
    So I sat down and thought everything through
    I rather have a child by a real man with father experience
    Even with no father experience but is ready and willing to sacrifice
    And do everything he can to make sure his child is well taken care of
    And I was guaranteed to have a real man that had my back one hundred percent
    Then I would have never had any doubts
    I still look at my ultrasound picture
    My body freezes up looking at my seed I was carrying
    Small thing you
    Sometimes as I sit and write
    But yet my kid not hugging or kissing me
    Or saying, “mommy I love you”
    I feel so empty inside
    The sorrow is so heavy
    So deep
    I pray God
    Bring me back my princess or prince
    Beautiful
    Handsome
    Healthy and all.

    My little angel 😇 💛

    Author Dainnese Jackson

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Dear Dainnese, your love for your child is evident and heartfelt. I can’t imagine the pain you’re going through. May you find comfort and healing in time. Sending you strength and love. Your little angel will always be a part of you.

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Shimmer and Shine

    Pure determination and new promises packed along with
    her black t-shirt that boldly said, “Laugh More, Bitch Less.”
    She was grit, she was fierce.
    She wasn’t afraid to travel in an RV with her new boyfriend,
    landing in Montana mountains as a young black beautiful woman -hiking on flat trails where chokecherries partied near creeks , dealing with strong winds that chapped her cheeks, and witnessing how the snow packed and spread over the land, emphasizing the mountain tops.
    She was cascading to her new dreams, her first brave trip out of the family nest.
    she shimmered, she shined.
    if you were lucky enough to see her smile – unforgettable like Natalee and Nat King Cole singing.
    that is why WHEN she went missing –
    no cellphone life, no social media snapchats, we knew something was wrong .
    So, us, her siblings/besties put on the song Fugees –“ Gonna Find You”
    We went.

    Missing women.
    Missing men.
    Missing kids.
    MISSING YOU.
    WE FOUND YOU.
    MURDERED.

    Pure determination, pure promises.
    Shimmer and Shine.

    Christina Mitma Momono

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Christina, your strength shines through your words. I’m so sorry for the loss of your sibling. Your determination to find them and the pain of discovering their fate is heart-wrenching. Sending you love and support during this difficult time. 💔

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • RIP Mac 1991 - 2020

    My dear,
    My beautiful one.
    Oh, how I wish to feel your touch again.
    To hear your sigh as you pass through the door.
    To look, just once more, into your crystal eyes.
    Oh, how I wish that I didn’t have to wish.

    Macy Fluharty

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Macy, your words convey a deep longing and sorrow. I’m truly sorry for your loss. The pain of missing someone is immeasurable. Sending you love and support during this time. 💔

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • The Day My World Stopped Spinning

    December 2, 2012. I remember this day all too well, and December 3, 2012, which is strange because I don’t remember most of my life. These two days however, are clear, vivid, like watching a movie in IMAX. A movie that haunts me to this very day.

    Let’s start with December 2. Abby and I were at Granny’s. It was a Sunday afternoon, the phone rang. It was you. Mama was just arriving at Granny’s to pick us up and take us back home with her. I remember Granny asking if I wanted to talk to you, I did not. I was handed the phone, but I had nothing to say to you. I was hurt, angry, and sad. I told you I was mad at you. Mad because you left once again to go raise a child who wasn’t even your own. You left me. You left us. You said you’d be coming home for Christmas, I was happy about that, excited even. I have always been a Daddy’s girl, all I wanted was my Daddy home. Since I didn’t want to talk to you, you asked to talk to Mama. I walked the phone out to her and let y’all talk. I remember Mama smiling and laughing while speaking with you. I later found out you had asked her to marry you again. She loved you, and truthfully now looking back, she would have married you again in a heartbeat. After y’all got off the phone, Abby and I loaded up in the car with Mama and headed home. The entire ride home I was still mad, but also very excited because in a few short weeks I’d get to see you again. So I thought anyway.

    December 3, 2012. Monday morning, I was awoken with my phone being taken away. I had no idea what I had done wrong for my phone to be taken, I was very confused. Mama looked like she had been crying all night. Her eyes were swollen and red. She couldn’t tell me why she took my phone from me, so being the teenager that I was, of course I was irritated. I asked her what was wrong, she said she had a toothache all night and didn’t get any sleep. I got ready for school like it was a normal day. I remember I was wearing hot pink pants, a black shirt, and black boots. We left home, the same time as usual, like we were headed to school. I would have never guessed the horrors that awaited us. We stopped at Nana’s, this was unusual, especially since we were going to be late for school at this point. I remember being so agitated because not only do I not have my phone, now I’m going to be late for school. After Nana’s, we stopped at Granny’s. Immediately I knew something was wrong. Aunt Sam’s car was in the driveway, she lived in Kentucky at this time so why was she there? Granny was sitting on the porch in her pajamas, housecoat, and slippers. We got out of the car, and Granny’s face looked just like Mama’s. Eyes red and swollen like she’d been crying all night. Now I am aware this is not another toothache. It was never a toothache.

    Granny tells us to go in and sit on her bed. Abby and I do as were told, we sit on the end of her bed. Granny then proceeds to kneel down in front of us, touching the both of us with her hands, and says, “Your Daddy was in an accident, and he didn’t make it.” I finally understand why my phone was taken, why everyone’s eyes were red and swollen, why everything that morning was a bit off. My world just went black. My heart shattered. Everything inside me died that day. That is the first time I ever had thoughts of suicide. Fourteen years old, and my Daddy had died. I didn’t even get to tell him goodbye. He died thinking that I hated him. I did not get to tell him I loved him, I missed him, I just wanted him to come home. I refused to speak to him when I had the chance just hours before he departed from this world. He died not knowing how much he meant to me. After we were told of the tragedy that occurred, we had to go home and pack our bags. We were going to Illinois. The bags were packed and we headed back to Granny’s, but now Papa was home too. A sound that I will never forget, is the sound of a grown man I have never seen shed one single tear, screaming, sobbing, and wailing. The sound of him mourning his son was loud enough to hear from outside of the house. To this day I can still hear his cries.

    The week following your death is a blur. I remember key moments. I remember Aunt Sam nearly killing us trying to drive to the court house. You were actually going to court to see if the child you left Tennessee for was yours. I remember staying at Silly Willy’s and everyone went to view your body, but we were not allowed to go. I remember them talking about your body being “mangled”. I remember sitting at Silly Willy’s kitchen table trying to help pick songs to play at your funeral. I remember going to pick out your casket. I remember picking out your favorite cologne to spray on you. I remember when we had your visitation in Illinois and we were the first to view you. I remember not being able to walk down the aisle, nearly falling to my knees, sobbing my eyes out. That could not be MY Daddy laying in this casket. No. Not mine. But it was. Thankfully, Aunt Sam was there to pick me up and help me walk. I remember finally leaving, and Mama was the last person to say goodbye to you. We all gave her privacy. I remember going out to eat with everyone afterward and we all took a picture with the signature Billy Gray middle finger.

    We brought you back home to Tennessee, in the bed of Papa’s truck. I remember riding behind it and still not believing that you were in that casket, you were really gone. I remember burying you, six feet in the ground. You were home for Christmas that year, just not the way I had expected. I remember everything, and sometimes, I wish I didn’t.

    Since you’ve been gone, it does feel like the world has stopped spinning. I died that day and I don’t think I have ever come back to life yet. In fact, everyone died. A piece of every single one of us died on December 2, 2012. Some have handled your death better than others, but nonetheless, not one of us is okay. You do not expect to bury your father as a teenager. A parent does not expect to bury their child. Siblings do not expect to bury their sibling at such a young age. Especially, when you’re completely blindsided by it.

    I always sit and wonder about the “what if’s”. What if you were still alive? Would things be as bad as they are? Would I be the way that I am? Would our family be as dysfunctional as it is now? The “what if’s” and “why’s” will eat you alive if you’re not careful. I have had my fair share of being eaten alive by them. I have had to accept that I cannot change what has happened, I cannot go back in time. I just have to believe you’re still here with me, believe that you know I love you and I always have, believe that you are in a better place.

    You turned the last page of your book here on earth. I will cherish that book forever, hold it tightly in my soul. This December will mark 11 years, and I miss you more than I could ever put into words. I am still my Daddy’s little girl. I always will be. You were the first man I loved, and the first to break my heart. Unfortunately, grief never goes away, time does not fade the emotions and feelings. However, it is how you deal with the grief that is the key. Truth be told, I have not handled it very well. I have cursed God’s name, lost faith in everything, spiraled into destructive habits. Lots of times just HOPING it would in some sense bring me closer to you. I am now hoping one day my world will begin to spin again, maybe life will form in the parts of me that died. I will keep trying down here on earth, remember your legacy, for I am just as hard headed and stubborn as you. In the meantime, it is what it is. I will take it day by day until we meet again. When that day comes, be prepared for a fight because you left me down here without you, tears, laughter, and most of all an abundance of love. I will never let you go.

    Your little girl,

    Hannah Gray

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Hannah, your letter is filled with raw pain and heartache. I’m so sorry for the loss of your father and the profound impact it has had on you and your family. The memories you shared are both heartbreaking and powerful. May you relief and healing in cherishing his legacy and carrying his love with you always.

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Someone You've Never Met

    Have you ever had the pleasure of falling in love with someone you’ve never met?

    It’s almost as if you have an immediate connection,
    Your souls are fused together.
    The pull of uncertain, certainty.
    You feel everything all at once.
    Your soul is content and full.
    You’ve become a glutton for the love
    It feels so good!
    Theres butterflies signifying this spectacular moment in the timeline.

    Have you ever had the pleasure of a heartbreak over someone you’ve never met?

    They say the worst withdrawal is of a person.
    I must say, “I agree.”
    It’s almost as if you have lost a real piece of your soul
    You have no autonomy over your
    heart.
    You crave, cry, and hate all within a
    minute.
    You mourn someone you’ve never even
    met.

    Have you ever had the pleasure of healing after a heartbreak over someone you’ve you’ve never met?

    It’s almost as if you are whole again.
    You carefully put each piece of your
    shattered heart together
    Hand gluing, welding, stitching,
    and crafting it into your newest
    artistry.
    Looking at your newest master piece
    You’re feel of all of the happy, joyful
    memories you chose to keep
    You’re reminded of the pain and
    mourning that led to
    You, whole,new & ready to love.

    AL Gonzalez

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • AL, your words beautifully capture the complexities of love, heartbreak, and healing, even with someone you’ve never met. It’s a testament to the power of human connection and strength. May your heart continue to mend and find love in unexpected places.

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • A Cosmic Love

    In the cosmic dance of chance and fate,
    A story unfolds, a love so great.
    A Spectrum of colors, a call in the night,
    Where fate intervened, two worlds took flight.

    In the realm of pixels and data streams,
    A Spectrum call center, where reality gleams.
    As a troubleshooter, I entered the scene,
    Little did I know, fate was foreseen.

    In the sunshine state, where palm trees sway,
    Florida’s warmth met Ohio’s gray.
    A sweet voice on my line,
    A connection so divine.

    Fate had more in its grand design.
    Little did I know, she’d soon be mine,
    She insisted on more, a number to exchange,
    Feeding into destiny’s range.

    Two and a half years, our connection grew,
    Before I gave into her irresistible pursuit.
    A realization of self-discovery, coming to light,
    As I embraced the truth of my own unique sight.

    In the closet’s shadow, I found my way,
    Guided by fate’s hand, in the light of day.
    Coming out, my thoughts unfurled,
    She stood by my side, as I reshaped my world.

    Long-distance whispers across state lines,
    A love so deep, like vintage wines.
    Florida to Ohio, miles and miles apart,
    Yet, she captured my soul and entered my heart.

    Through video calls and messages, love took its place,
    A connection so strong, no distance can erase.
    Her laughter echoed through a virtual space,
    Serenading me in a symphony of love and unspoken grace.

    In her, I found a safe harbor, a haven of peace,
    Long-distance love, a sweet release.
    She, a lighthouse, guiding me through,
    In the vast ocean of love, our connection grew.

    Miles may stretch, but love knows no bounds,
    With the help of fate, our story resounds.
    A love that bridges the space and time,
    A testament to fate, beautifully sublime.

    Here’s to the place where it all began,
    Our fate smiled, as it crafted our unique plan.
    In the Spectrum of love, we found our place,
    A love story written by destiny’s grace.

    Abigail J. Stopka

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Abigail your poetic words beautifully capture the journey of love and fate that brought you and your partner together. As your connection grew over two and a half years, fate continued to play its part. And through it all, your partner stood by your side, supporting you as you reshaped your world. Despite the miles that stretched between you, love…read more

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • My Love

    My heart is broke I’m begining to sulk
    My tears are for fears that you might not be back do you have to go away for this long? I don’t think Im strong for lack of a better word, maybe I’m being absurd
    First time I saw you I knew you were the one.
    Starring in to each others eyes our lips touched and that was it, I was hit with cupid’s arrow.
    Now years later a lie was created
    doubted thoughts loom and you assume.
    My heart drops what did I do I never knew you felt like this I must’ve missed.
    I want to give you a kiss and be in bliss again with you, this what I really want to do
    I miss you

    Danielle Bettro

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Danielle I can feel the raw emotions in your letter, and I’m here to offer support and understanding during this difficult time. Heartbreak is never easy, and it’s natural to feel a sense of sadness and longing when someone you love is away for an extended period. Sending you strength and support during this challenging time.

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • WHISPERS

    I dedicate this poem to Gary and Morgan, loving partners for over 40 beautiful years. This month Gary passed away after a year long struggle with cancer, days before Morgan’s birthday and their anniversary. During his final moments, Gary only had the strength to whisper priceless words of encouragement and love to Morgan. This is a poem of hope that we will all meet again, someday, somewhere beyond this life. But in the meantime, we’ll find each other in…

    WHISPERS

    You’ll come to me in whispers

    And you’ll visit me in dreams

    I’ll awaken from your kisses

    Softly lit by radiant beams

    In the echos of my life

    I will catch your sweetest voice

    I will hear our love’s pure song

    And my heart will then rejoice

    I will strain my tired ear

    For each whisper that you gift

    As I listen most intently

    In our memories I will drift

    And one day your gentle whispers

    Will be louder and quite clear

    We’ll be standing face to face

    And our love song all will hear

    Ricardo Albertorio

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Ricardo, your poem is a great and heartfelt tribute to the enduring love between Gary and Morgan. The imagery of whispers and dreams beautifully captures the connection that exceeds life’s limitations. May their love continue to shine bright and bring comfort to Morgan in her grief.

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

      • Thank you Kaylah…it brings me joy to know you appreciated my humble little poem. There is solace in still feeling connected to those we’ve lost. I wanted to express turning sadness into beautiful anticipation of meeting that loved one again beyond this life. Thank you for reading and commenting.

        Write me back 

        Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Hide N Seek

    Within the depths of my souls chambers
    Resides a tale cloaked and concealed by mist.
    A story of shadows, of darkness
    Where whispers of despair seep.

    The past a tempestuous journey endured,
    Through valleys veiled in haze.
    Whispers of melancholy a melody,
    Played beneath the moons gaze.

    Why withhold this tale from those I cherish?
    The ache, the anguish heavy to bear.
    To shield them from burdens I chose to hide
    Preserving their hearts with love and care.

    For spoken words cannot be unheard
    Revealing pain and stirring wounds.
    To spare their hearts untouched by despair
    Silence became my tender safeguard.

    Not, out of shame or deceitful embrace
    As loves shield, protective grace.
    I treasure their laughter and unrestrained joy
    A sanctuary where suffering remains unnamed.

    So within the refuge of my hearts retreat
    Rests a truth, a story.
    Through loves rhythm and unspoken pact
    Their serenity is preserved entirely.So I conceal this chapter, this history,
    Deep within the chambers of my soul it silently endures.
    Because love, an treasured shade
    Warrants a canvas that’s untainted and sincere.

    Rebecca Engle

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Rebecca, Your words show the journey you’ve endured in the past. Your decision to conceal this chapter, this history, speaks volumes about your selflessness and deep care for those you hold close to you. I know it may be hard to carry this hidden story within you bu, always remember that it’s important to find support and outlets for your own…read more

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • The Greatest Gift

    Dear Unsealers,

    Today I held the hand of a dying friend. We looked into each other’s eyes and I said the only thing I could say at that moment…”I love you”. Too weak to speak, he closed his eyes, puckered his tired lips, and blew me a kiss. I caught it and will carry it with me for the rest of my life.

    Ricardo Albertorio

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Ricardo, your heartfelt moment with your friend reflects the power of love and connection. The exchange of love through a simple gesture speaks volumes. May the memory of that kiss bring you comfort and strength in the days ahead.

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Special Moments with my Godmother

    *This summer my friend challenged me to write something based off of paint color names. I did it once and liked the result, so I had to do it again. I had my mom choose 5 different paint color swatches at a hardware store and then wrote this. While some details in this letter have been changed (to fit the prompt) I believe this does encapsulate the beautiful spirit of my deceased godmother so I dedicate this to her.
    ____________________________________________________________________________
    I miss you

    I miss the way you used to romanticize life

    And filled it with special moments

    What a blessing it was to watch you relishing in every moment you were here.

    With hospitality you would set out fancy china, brew coffee and fill a carafe with heavy cream just for me

    The way you would belly laugh when we got caught in a downpour and arrived home sopping wet.

    The few sacred moments we spent together in the morning where you would put my hair in a ponytail and smile warmly at me.

    The way you would kiss me on the forehead and your cloudberry clad lips would imprint themselves there as a reminder of the deep love you had for me.

    The way you would strategically place the tinsel on the Christmas tree so that it would glimmer in the darkness.

    Your enthusiasm for life was what made you so beautiful.

    And it is a piece of you that shines in the mosaic of pieces that make up me.

    One day I will have my own goddaughter and I hope my wonder and enthusiasm for life

    Will shine as deeply in her as yours does in me.

    With Love,

    Hannah G.

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • LLL

    In the realm of politics, they stood so tall,
    A mentor, a friend, guiding us all.
    Their wisdom and passion, a beacon of light,
    Inspiring us to fight for what’s right.

    But fate had other plans, a tragic twist,
    A car rollover accident, a life dismissed.
    Yet their spirit lives on, in memories we keep,
    Their legacy forever etched, in our hearts so deep.

    They taught us to be bold, to stand up and speak,
    To fight for justice, for the voices weak.
    Their absence is felt, a void hard to fill,
    But their impact on us, lingers still.

    So let’s honor their memory, with every stride,
    Carrying their torch, side by side.
    Though they may be gone, their influence won’t cease,
    For their spirit lives on, in our pursuit of peace.

    Rebecca Engle

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Rebecca, your heartfelt tribute to the influential figure in politics resonates deeply. Their legacy lives on through the passion and wisdom they imparted. Let us continue to honor their memory by carrying their torch and striving for a better world.

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • How DO HEARTS SPEAK?

    A kiss is the way that hearts can connect

    Through lips that are tender, soft, and knowing

    The feeling of love is warm, gentle, and glowing

    When loving lips meet, the hearts feel the effect

    ❤️

    Hold the embrace and never let go

    Time stops for the kiss so hearts can then speak

    They whisper sweet words that are caring and meek

    Their language is subtle and spoken just so

    ❤️❤️

    What they say is a secret transmitted in code

    They plan for the future and forgetting the past

    Hearts speak of a mystery that will linger and last

    The lips move that message in a soft, silent mode

    ❤️❤️❤️

    When the spoken “I love you” is not quite sufficient

    It’s time for the hearts to speak once again

    And send their sweet poems through pathways that bend

    Back through our lips in a way so efficient

    ❤️❤️❤️❤️

    Ricardo Albertorio

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • I love this! I read something today on a cup of coffee that said “Life is too short to kiss on the cheek.” This reminded me of that quote 🙂 <3 Lauren

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

      • Thank you, Lauren…it’s one of my favorites I’ve written. I was trying to figure out why kissing your loved one is so important as compared to simply saying the repetitive and tired “I love you”. You can’t lie with a kiss 😉

        Write me back 

        Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Jamell Crouthers shared a letter in the Group logo of Remembering those we lost/GriefRemembering those we lost/Grief group 6 months, 1 week ago

    This post is viewable by the Unsealed community only.

    Gone Physically But Still With Me Spiritually

    This letter is only available to The Unsealed subscribers. Subscribe or login to get access!

  • I pick a peach rose and rested on its side

    When we talk about those we have lost it doesn’t have to mean someone has died physically, rather someone you have lost connection with or someone that decided to leave you mentally.
    I chose this topic because this relationship that I no longer have with my mother has impacted me greatly in my life,
    This was not my decision by any means but people have different reasons for things that they do.
    I have not seen heard or talked to my mother in 27 years it seems like a travesty but in actuality it’s probably a good thing.
    A little backstory:
    My mother has always been into hard drugs as long as I can remember I remember crawling on the floor through needles in my diapers and I remember the (tax man) she called him coming to her house a couple times a week with a briefcase. God only knows what was in that briefcase. As I grew up I remember my mother getting taken out on a stretcher by the ambulance and police for what I have no idea I was probably about 6 years old, My mother had a lot of mental health issues along with the drug use, My grandmother ended up sectioning her a few times I can remember bringing her to the hospital and watching her fight, kick, punch and bite The orderlies it took five to assist in getting hurt tied down in the bed so she wouldn’t hurt anyone for herself anymore. Know that I’m grown and I look back at these instances on baffled at how a mother can let her child see and hear and witness all of these things at such a young age it breaks my heart but I’ve learned to cope. I don’t think you can ever cope fully to a situation like this flashbacks always happen for me I have PTSD and night terrors about things that used to happen I remember being woken up at 2:00 in the morning when I was 5 to be told that we had to get out of the house and go live somewhere else (We were living with my mother’s boyfriend at the time)
    This happened on a number of occasions with different men. I went to a new school every year back and forth to my mom and dad’s never had a stable place.
    I do feel bad for her she missed out on so much of her life as well as mine But I do not feel bad taking my sanity back and getting myself well. Like they say when you’re at the bottom of the barrel there’s no where else to go but up so you just got to keep trucking everybody has their own faults and decisions that they have to make. I do believe drugs obviously have a hand in all of this but I don’t believe that she didn’t have the option not to get involved with it those are our own decisions to make and the path we choose does impact others and to not think of it that way is selfish. For my sake in my kids sake I chose to break the ties with her she scares me And I don’t want my kids to ever feel like I did around her so they also have never met her. I feel like I want to miss her but I also feel like that’s letting my guard down and I’m so hyper-sensitive to not becoming her I know I’m not her and I know I don’t make these decisions that she makes and I know that I love my children and would never put them in harm’s way I just can’t wrap my head around The situation still I’m 41 years old now and I’m not involved in heavy drugs I do what I need to do to survive and I’ve got a pretty level-head on my shoulders so I guess I can thank her for that, but as for showing me how to be a mother I will take the credit for that
    With all this in mind I guess the lesson learned is no one to walk away when you’re getting into deep your mental health is not worth it and the detrimental aftermath it does to everybody else
    So again I’d like to say goodbye to my mother. that part of my life is over thank God.

    Danielle Bettro

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Danielle,
      Such a beautiful thing to be vulnerable! I can relate on so many levels the grief a mother can bring. I also had a mother who was on hard drugs, cared more about herself than her own innocent child. It is such a loss for the one who cannot fulfill the duty placed onto their path. The strength this can give us, seeing the light is the…read more

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Wow. What a great letter. Sorry you had it rough like that. What an unbelievable strength you have. To stay true to yourself and not let your guard down. I can’t imagine the courage it required to say goodbye like that. You seem like a really strong girl Danielle

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Dear______, *A tribute letter to Angus Cloud* ☁️

    *Disclaimer- There is reference to suicidal ideation- if you’re suffering please seek out help or call the suicide prevention hotline emergency number, 988.

    Dear Angus,

    I’m sorry this letter couldn’t make it to you. I know for certain that it does not find you well. If this letter could reach Heaven- I’d say “Sorry dude- I’ve never watched Euphoria.” I’d assume you’d think “fake fan.” LOL.

    Your personal friends and family can attest to your attributes far better than me. So, I’ll just say this. When you took your life- it didn’t just hurt you. It hurt everyone who knew you, knew your name, and loved you. This letter is not to condemn your actions but to anyone who feels the same as you.

    I don’t know the details surrounding your death (& don’t care to quite frankly) but I imagine you were quite scared, upset, and angry. The mind can play tricks on us in our low moments. Like saying that nothing even matters, what is there to live for now? For me, I try to counsel myself by saying this is all temporary. As in, “this too shall pass” (2 Corinthians 4:17).

    My heart goes out to your Mom and close friends. May God rest your soul. You are gone but never forgotten! 🕊️

    Sincerely,

    Victoria

    Victoria Makanjuola

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Aww Victoria, you are such a compassionate person. I love this line, “, I try to counsel myself by saying this is all temporary. As in, “this too shall pass” I tell myself the same. It really helps me move forward. <3 lauren

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Time carries on when we don't

    I wanted to write an introduction to this piece because this is not about one, it’s about a few of my family members that have passed.

    To the lost and the lonely:
    When I think of you I think of all of the obstacles that you’ve overcome in Your short life and the inspiration and sadness you left behind. Every one of you have inspired me whether it be suicide or a drug overdose I wonder, You checked out early. the Saddened reality of life starts to wash over your emotions, comes in slowly but fiercely Your conscience tells you no, but your mental state overpowers, give me one good reason why I had to stay here when you all took the easy way out and were able to let yourself be free finally. It’s not an honor to live anymore, You are honored in death they’ll whisper at your funeral, “how could she do that to her own children” “why didn’t anybody say anything”The blame, the grief, the sadness, the regret what could have been and what actually was.
    Did it feel freeing at the bridge where you decided to take the inevitable dive? Did all your memories come flashing before your eyes like they say? Or was it just a jump into nice cold water letting go of everything you couldn’t stop?
    Did you choke on all the pills that you took? were you able to feel any remorse before it took you over? did you think about your family before the inevitable? were you able to realize what you You couldn’t before? did you feel safe? were you cold?
    Did you ever think that someone would be writing this about you thinking about you wondering you’re feelings maybe you thought no one wondered before I can only imagine what courage it took for you to take the final jump or injest the last pill that did you in. Do you feel the same about things now that you’ve passed do you have any regrets where do you think this was the best thing for you. Sometimes I contemplate doing the same but suicide and overdoses are made for people who are scared to face their problems maybe I am afraid Would anybody stop me? Would anybody care? Or would people just say they already knew that this was going to happen to me, because of the turmoil I grew up with Time does carry on when we don’t I guess it’s stronger than us It’s the only thing that keeps going when everything else stops.

    Danielle

    Subscribe  or  log in to reply

    • Danielle, your raw and thoughtful words paint a powerful picture of the struggles faced by those we have lost. The weight of their choices and the lingering questions they leave behind are heavy on your heart. Your contemplation reminds me of the importance of empathy and understanding.

      Write me back 

      Subscribe  or  log in to reply

  • Load More

Mange push notifications