Wednesday, August 5, 2009

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY GIRL

Today, 11 years ago, I became a mom and it would change me, and make me the person I am today. For that, I will be forever grateful to a child, that for being a part of my life for such a brief moment, left a mark on my life that will never be forgotten.

Dear Chloe,

The reason for your short life was forever hidden from me and over the past 9 years I have slowly been shown the lessons you taught me.

You made me grow up so quickly and make decisions I thought I would never have to make in my life. The lesson, it has allowed me to know when emotion or mentality needs to lead my decisions. Sometimes your heart can't always be the loudest voice and it is going to be hard to hear the other voices over it, but if you listen hard enough, you will know what needs to be done.

You opened my eyes to a world that so few enter, yet so many judge. The lesson, teach the next generation it is okay to ask questions and inquire when something they see is new to them, rather than looking away and ignoring the "elephant in the room". Being different is not a disability, ignorance is disabling and we need to teach our children not to stare, point or snicker. We need to teach ourselves as parents it is okay for a child to ask questions and know why something is different, when it is explained then the "different" disappears and the person is left.

You showed me patience is truly a virtue. The lesson, take a deep breath prior to reacting when challenged so as not to jump to conclusions. Take that moment to absorb what is being said, process the true meaning, then respond.

You gave me a membership to a club of parents who didn't ask to join, but are grateful for the charter. The lesson, reach out and tell my story, let others know they are not alone and they will see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Finally, you made me see the beauty in death and importance of today. The lesson, death is not to be feared, what should be feared is not living each day to the fullest. There should be no worries about tomorrow or next week, but worries about if you made enough memories today.

We have had many challenges over the past 11 years and if it wasn't for the lessons you have taught me, I don't think we would have been as successful when facing those trials and tribulations. In the 2 years, 4 months and 8 days I was blessed to have you in my life, you impacted me and continue to do so even today. Thank you for giving me the gift of being your mom!

Love,
Mommy

1 comment:

KB said...

What a beautiful tribute to your daughter. I'm very proud of you and I'm sure Chloe is smiling down on her Mommy.