I lost my son, Adam, to suicide on October 18, 2003, and have been a Memory Tree coordinator every year since then. This is a wonderful way to honor and remember our loved ones we have lost to suicide, at a particularly emotional, and often trying, time of the year.
I miss my son very much. It is very hard thinking about him and remembering things while, at the same time, realizing that I will never hear his voice again or feel him hug me. I will never again see his smiling face. It is not something we can ever be prepared for in life.
Lighting the tree every year, and putting the named ornaments on it, reminds me that they live on within us and it gives me great comfort. I hope in some small way it gives each of you some comfort as well.
May you have a peaceful and loving holiday season!