Dear Jakey,
Another snowy day down here . I am going to be honest with you, I am worried about your brother. Not really worried, but sad for him. He is so very sad lately. And I am not even sure if that is the right word or not. It is more like he is preoccupied and worried about so much. And just trying to make sense out of something that really makes no sense at all. I know how hard it is for me at my age, I can hardly imagine how confusing and sad this must be to him. He asked me this morning what would happen to a kid if everyone in his family died? We talked about how he would always have someone to take care of him and love him. I just am not sure if he believes me because he doesn’t understand how quickly you left. He has asked so many questions lately about hearts working or why they stop working, how when we called 911 the police knew how to get here so fast, what you are doing in Heaven, all kinds of things. He asks them at the most unexpected times too – he seems fine and then out they come. You are always on his mind.
He is really excited to start the Wave Riders program but is really bummed out about waiting until March. I think the idea of talking to other kids his age who have lost people close, particularly a brother, sounds so good to him. Honestly, I was shocked at his response and enthusiasm. He keeps the brochure on his night table.
So Jakey, they say kids are more open to visits or dreams – that they take them for what they are and don’t question it all like grown ups do. Can you help him out? I know he wants nothing more than to snuggle with you. Or to have you close. Maybe you can let him know your okay.
Love,
Mommy
Ethan is really special…give him a hug for me!
Heather,
It was so nice to see you after school the other day. I wished I could’ve stopped to catch up longer. I am glad that you and Ethan are finding it helpful to write and draw your stories and thoughts about this unbelievable journey you have been on. And that he is finding a voice to share them at school with his friends. When I saw the book, I thought “it is such a simple journal/workbook, but maybe somehow it can help.” Each day in my work, I see and hear children tell the most amazing stories about how their family members have touched their lives, and how important that is in helping them to process all the things that are going on around them and to them.
Ethan is a special boy, and I am still thinking of all of you each day. much love,
Julie Lewis