Six
Today, Bethany has been gone for six years. It just seems like a mind-bogglingly large number.
I usually find that I am worse in the early hours of the morning, but this year, Kellie was well prepared to head off anything nasty, and has been plying me with movies and cuddles and all manner of nice things.
Not that she doesn't normally, but for today, we have an inordinately-large amount of comedy movies, nice nibbly things and a massive nice dinner planned. All things being equal, there is a good chance I will explode.
Last night, pretty much as midnight rolled around, I felt the oppressive weight of todays date on my shoulders, but while sat watching Nicholas Cage play a con-man, I decided I would do my utmost to focus on the GOOD of todays date.
I know that might sound strange, but in my mind it does sound right.
Today, six years ago, I lost my little girl, and she became an angel. But through that, I know how much better she is now... I know that with all the other little kids up there, she can run, and play, and dance, and never again has to know the scratch of a needle, the taste of medicine that, even though it was vile, she always took without complaint. I know that she can do what she wants, when she wants, how she wants. She doesn't have to know fear, pain, or see the look on my face trying to be brave for her.
To my brave little gorgeous, Bethy,
It has been so long - too long - since I have felt you squeeze up against me. So long since you have swung out on the banisters to see me at the front door. Too long to feel you trying to escape me tickling you.
It has been too long not to see you, to kiss you, to hold you and to cuddle you.
But you know what, I know that where ever you are, no matter what you are doing, you are having fun doing it. Yes, I miss feeling you snuggle into my lap for one of you cuddles on the stairs, but I know that one day, we will be able to make up for lost time.
I think about you all the time, my gorgeous little lady, and I hate knowing you've been gone longer than you were down here, but I know that you did so much good in that short space of time, that your tiny little heart - even if it wasn't quite right - was so full of love for everyone that ever came into contact with you, even those that never met you in person... Even people that never even knew of you when you were alive...
You're something special, Bethy. You always were, and you always will be.
I wish so hard that you could have met Kellie, that you could sit on her lap and show her your zippers, that you could give her one of your cuddles. Me telling her about you, talking about how much I miss you... It doesn't seem to do you justice. You would have her wrapped so tightly around your little finger, it's not even funny.
I miss you with every bone and every fibre in my body, but I know in my heart that you are having such a good time where ever you are, always dancing, always running...Yes, today I am missing my daughter, just like I do every day, and especially like I do on this date. But today, I am smiling while thinking of her, smiling knowing that she is running with all the others, not living in fear nor in pain. I am doing my best to not dwell on the hospital, not dwelling on the sights and sounds from that day, the expressions nor the words of the doctors. I am thinking about how beautiful, how wonderful, how cheeky and how amazing my little angel is.
I love you Bethy, and can't wait to have all those hugs owing to me.
I see you baby, I always see you..
-Daddy
6 Responses to “Six”
Thinking of you Xxxxx
You are truly missed Bethy . Even though I never knew you in person , you hold a special place in my heart
Los of hugs, I can't believe its been 6 yrs, I will never forget all the stories and adventures while she was here , nit the horror of that post 6 yrs ago! Hugs, love and prayers coming ur way!
Kelly
She is beautiful and will always remain that cute little girl... you put such a lovely tribute to her xx xx
I feel for you Dan, my Jaia would have turned 8 this coming June and every time I look at my 6 month old daughter I can't help but wonder if Little Ruby looks like her...
Thinking of you, and Kellie as she supports you through today xxx
I've been thinking of you and Bethany. I posted to chdparents and Hearts of Hope but failed to post here and on fb. You know that I love Bethany as if she were my own niece even though I never met her in person. She was a light in this world and is now a shining star. Since Jessica died I understand your pain so much more. I could imagine how hard it would be to bury my child but now it's far too real. You know my heart is with you during this difficult time. I do not look forward to Jessica's birthday in June. I hope I get through it alright. You are doing a great job, Dan. I bet Jess and Bethany are dancing together, singing and having fun. No more pain, no more surgeries or oxygen... just peace and joy.
Take care my friend. ((hugs))
Nancy
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