To Those Whose Arms Are Empty

My heart aches for those whose wombs and arms have been left empty. Their bright flame did not shine for long. Lord, comfort them with deep comfort as only you can.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

The Brightest Flame, by Neil Heron

So little spoken, so much to feel.
A whisper unbroken, each word so real.
Eyes that sparkle the brightest blue.
Make my heart beat a little faster,
Our time together flew.

Some things are soon forgotten
In life, love can let us go
It can also lift us,
Giving our spirit an eternal glow.

I felt alive being with you
Wishing you feel the same
You are more than just a memory
A perfect person the brightest flame.

We did not waste a moment
Feeling free with love to share
As my words begin to run their course
I close my eyes and you are there.

Losing a child is not a part of my story but I have had the unfortunate blessing of sharing in this story with others. I use the term “unfortunate blessing” because it’s so very unfortunate that a parent would have to live their life without their child, but a blessing for the bystanders who witness hearts that are forced to let go, arms that are left empty, yet still somehow have the strength to live. That kind of will, that kind of strength, that kind of love – it inspires.

For those whose arms are empty today, your tears are counted. Your hurt is not wasted. Your pain is not overlooked. Your bright flame is not forgotten. Your scars are “redemption inscribed in the flesh, a memorial to something endured, to something lost.” ― Dean Koontz

When the darkness crashes against you, may you notice the light coming from deep in the woodwork.

WOODWORK, Sleeping at Last
(listen on youtube / buy on itunes)

Partial Lyrics:
“all our love came out of the woodwork.
all our strength came out of the woodwork.
we only notice light
when darkness crashes against it.
we only notice light
deep in the woodwork.” ~Ryan O’Neal