Touchstones
I know that many of you are wondering how it is that you can help us at this stage of the journey. I ask that you continue to be our touchstones. Those points in our life that we visit to remember joy, to center ourselves. Rest assured that I (we) will ask for help, that what pride I have left is usually reserved for misinterpreting my husband's well-intentioned words (sorry, my love). Our primary foci in the coming days are keeping isaiah pain free and relatively happy and creating memories that joey will be able to reference as he grows without his physical brother. You have many gifts among you and we ask that you help us in these goals. Perhaps you are able to come read stories or play an instrument or do an art project with both boys. Perhaps you are able to have a play date with Joey while Isaiah gets one-on-one time or spend an hour with Isaiah so one of us can play catch with Joey. Maybe you work somewhere with big trucks or construction vehicles that the boys can check out. They're still kids and they love trains and dirt and playgrounds as much as ever.
As time goes on, and Isaiah weakens, we may ask for more adult help, such as with meals or lawn care, or to go for a beer.
We are talking with Joey as he can handle it, but please, if he brings it up, don't shy away. He will have great grief and anger and fear, and we do not ask him to be strong or brave any more than we are. It will be a great service to him simply to know that you are a part of his life before, during and after this time.
If you are uncomfortable with where our life is heading, we do not ask that you join us on the road. If you are along for the ride, trust that we will ask for help, but if you have an idea you believe will be helpful, just ask. If we don't need it today,we may tomorrow. And thank you, for yesterday, for today, for tomorrow.

9 Comments:
jen cathy has set it up with bob walker, a walker city fireman, so that the boys can come and climb in on and around a real live fire truck.. i'm hoping that you are mobile, cause they really can't bring the truck there. call me and we can set up a time. i will be avail. weeknights or fri until 3;30. all my love jim
We've been talking about making a trip to GR later this month. If you all are up for it we would love to get together for a play date. I'm sure Teagan would love to be a princess for your two knights:) I'll keep in touch and if there is ever any thing that we can do please, don't be afraid to ask.
Many many prayers are being said daily on your behalf by many whom you don't know. You, your family and support system are impressive and inspirational, and have motivated me to be better than I am. I wish you many moments of peace and joy ... those of which memories are made.
Ok a few "techincal" questions...do you eat meat, prefer organic (of course), but what about cheese, dairy (in general), and things with glutin (how do you spell that?). Just checking because although I used to drive a fork lift, I work in a hospital and ya'll are far too familiar with my territory for an outing. But food, food I can offer, just need a few technical details :) Oh, and I can certainly offer beer - but wine is my preference and I can bring that with the food :). Seriously - you are loved and we (I) are blessed to walk this road - wherever we end up and regardless how we get there. peace, andibwalsh
How about a sail boat ride (or just aboard one) or a kite festival in Grand Haven or a play about Thomas the Train or none of the above traded in for a surprise picnic or big hugs all around! Just give us a call! We're up for any or all. We love you. GGV
You don't know me but I am following your journey from afar, and send thoughts of strength and peace to your family.
a touchstone i'm honored to be, although i can not promise a rock i'll always be, i can promise i am here to share each wave of laughter, flutter of smiles, anxiety, fear or anger as they too present, and tears as well.. i will not treat you as fragile, or call on you to be brave or strong, but i will call on you to feel, to breathe, and to lean when you can. and memories.. memories i can promise. here is to each new memory the coming days bring, and each moment of peace with your family.. and each exchange of brotherly smiles, for these, these are the memories that will last.
love you always. ame & matt
i echo ame's thoughts. she couldn't have said it better. please know that i am here to offer up my ears whenever you need them. know that you are never alone as you approach the coming days. as far as offering up my talents....did i ever tell you about my love of the vaccuum? we love you all very much.
love to all of you
cole/nikki
Well...not living physically close to you does have some limitations when it comes to the 'up-close-and-personal' time that could be so helpful right now. But that doesn't mean for a minute that we will not remain for the ride no matter what. We're in this with you for the long haul and we continue to send love and prayers your way. We admire and support your strength and your fragility too. Much love, Cecilia & family
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