I Carry You With Me

I miss you when I rise in the soft glow of a new morning.

I miss you in the depths of darkness as my weary head meets the pillow at night.

I miss you in the chaos and noise of a busy day.

I miss you in the stillness and space of quiet moments.

I miss you in the magic and wonder of the holidays.

I miss you in family gatherings and birthday celebrations.

I miss you in the familiar lyrics of a song playing on the radio.

I miss you in the aromas of a beloved family recipe as it fills the room with comfort and nostalgia.

I miss you in the memories that play on an endless loop in my head like a movie reel.

I miss you in the majestic sunsets that paint the sky as the sun reaches the horizon.

I miss you in new experiences, shared laughter, and meaningful conversations.

I miss you in the precious space you once occupied in my life.

I miss you, Mom. 

I miss you so much it hurts sometimes – like the hurt of an open wound that slowly transforms into a tender scar – constantly reminding me of its presence. A presence of love and loss.  A presence of hope and healing.

Though you are not here with me now, I find a way to always keep you close. 

You live on in the memories that now fill the empty space where you previously stood. 

You live on in the wondrous beauty that surrounds me.

You live on in my words and actions.

You live on in new beginnings and experiences, and the growth they inspire.

And so, I carry you with me, Mom. Every day I carry you with me.

Until my time on this earth is done, you will forever be a part of me. In every breath I take. In every beat of my heart.  

I carry you with me.

Photo: Sixteen Miles Out (@sixteenmilesout) | Unsplash Photo Community