Family Matters Christmas Countdown

Every year on December 1st, as many across the globe begin the how many shopping days left 'til Christmas countdown, I rise from my bed with the dreadful memory of my mother's death due to domestic violence.

This year, this day, this moment is to share domestic violence family matters with you. And, make no mistake, these family matters should matter to you. One may never know what goes on behind closed doors.

We often find out too late that a loved one has fallen victim to domestic abuse. Become aware of and watch for the warning signs of domestic violence and abuse.

This holiday season you can help—a family member - a friend - a neighbor - a stranger—lessen the horror of domestic violence by taking a stand, by giving the gift of doing your part to Arise Against Abuse.

Arise Against Abuse Poster by abitosunshine
Search for another posters online at Zazzle
 

I love and miss you, Mommy, always...

I found this unusual Christmas Countdown video and viewing it just felt like I feel at this moment... sadness creeps into this day... there will be no holiday shopping for my Momma...

Let's Hear it For the Boy!

Today is my son's 40th birthday and I have created a very special tribute in honor of our love. Come join the celebration as I tell the greatest mother and son love story ever told.

2 Peas in a Pod

My Aunt Martha Bell died in the wee hours of this morn. Though she was more than ready, the loss of this lady I shall mourn.

Her granddaughter said to me this morning, "Mom wanted me to call you right away. She said you were like 2 peas in a pod..." O' so very true! I am more like her than I am my mother, her sister. It's a heart-warming thought to know they are together now...

I'll be purchasing these candles to have nearby so I'll smile and think of my Aunt Martha Bell each time I pass by them.

UPDATE: I already made the purchase of those peas in a pod and I've created a Squidoo lens in her honor and hope that you will leave a comment for us there on Loss of a Pea in a Pod. I've much to do today, but will be updating the lens for my Aunt Martha Bell as time permits.

Lost Kindred Souls

This post is dedicated to my baby brother ... I love you.

Every single day, in every possible way, show your loved ones the love you feel for them, before life or death snatches them away...

This was first posted here and you're encouraged to read the discussions that took place, sign up and comment, too.

I Just Cannot "Do" Mother's Day

I Just Cannot "Do" Mother's Day
©2002 Ruth Cox

I just cannot "do" Mother's Day;
Most don't understand why this I say.

My Mother is dead and I miss her so much,
Daily glimpses of her my soul does touch.
Her life was stolen from my siblings and me,
Domestic violence took her from us, you see.

My sisters have children unseen by our Mother;
Being held by one's Gramma is a feeling like no other.
Brothers share memories of Mom in a red cloud of danger;
A fist full of pain in their hearts is not a stranger.

I just cannot "do" Mother's Day;
Hope you understand why this I say.

My son is missing from this daily world o' mine,
Lost to drugs and for his heart I endlessly pine.
He wanders aimlessly in his world, dark and remote,
The fears and horrors of his past he continues to tote.

My hopes and dreams for my son, difficult to smother,
Live on in my soul and I pray he shall one day discover
A light to lead him along a path that will in the end
Allow him to feel the love of his Mother, also his friend.

I just cannot "do" Mother's Day;
Hope you understand why this I say.

My spirit is filled with sadness on this honored day
But I celebrate it daily, in my own special way.
And for those of you who miss a child or your mother
Know that you surely have the understanding of another.

My heart grieves for the loss of my mother and my son,
Yet deep inside I know the raging battle shall be won.
For I believe one day a light will shine from up above;
Mothers and their children will be reunited by His love.

I just cannot "do" Mother's Day;
Hope you understand why this I say.