Twenty-four years ago,

you were placed in my arms –

my second born and my first son –

truly, the most wonderful Christmas gift I have ever received.

A beautiful child whose smile melted my heart

and whose eyes will forever remain etched in my memory.

Sadly, it is your voice that begins to escape me.

Yet, a smile slowly spreads across my face

as I remember your engaging sense of humor

and how you loved to make me laugh.

Never did I imagine

after nineteen short years

that your life would be so quickly taken from you.

There are moments when I am still not able to grasp it.

The pain that I felt on that day,

continues to tear at the depths of my soul,

and although time does have a way of healing,

it can also leave one with a longing.

I will carry you with me,

deep in my heart,

until the time comes for you

to fill my waiting arms once more.