Cheryl Ann Brooks

Love, Loss, and the Stars that Guide Me

Momma, I will never hear this word the same for the rest of my life.  I will forever feel an ache.  In every song, every casual mention of the word it will bring all the pain to the surface, and I will become just a little stronger each time.

When I was young and experienced my first loss my mom comforted me by telling me that the brightest stars are the ones we lost.  She told me that they are always up there watching me, and I have to work really hard so I can make them proud. I never imagined that I would someday be searching the stars for her.

My mom has taught me so much and I think the ripples of her love and lessons will continue long after her loss settles on my heart.

She taught me how to love fiercely. She loved in a way that is hard to describe other than I feel like if you were on an airplane together and it was going down, she would make sure your mask was on first.  It may not have been healthy, but it was beautiful.  With this I also learned how important it is to take care of myself first.  I learned that I can love my kids just as fiercely, but I have to take care of myself too.  It isn’t always easy but with a great support system it is possible.

She taught me the importance of kindness.  It reminds me of this quote, “Ah kindness.  What a simple way to tell another struggling soul that there is love to be found in this world.”  She taught me to look for that struggling soul and find ways to ease their pain.  I plan to continue this work for her and spend each day aiding others in realizing they are not alone.  If you want to remember her, honor her, grab an angel from an Angel Tree or find a way to give back.

Her love for books and music may have been my favorite of the things she taught me.  It is through these outlets that I am able to heal my soul.  Music and books are really the secret to life.  Words help you build empathy and a deeper appreciation for life and those we love.  It reminds us that we are all going through something and that we are never truly alone in this life.

I was raised with piles of books all around the house and the idea that “you always need a book just in case.”  I will now cling to these books, these words in a way I didn’t think possible.  I will be forever grateful to the authors and musicians that are brave enough to put their words out into the world to heal what is broken in others.  I know that they were a solace for my mom and have made a huge impact on my life.  If you would like to donate to my classroom library it will give me a way to honor her and continue to pass on our love of reading to others.  Here is the link: https://tinyurl.com/26urmbwr

Momma

I hope your forever,

consists of looking

through my eyes;

I promise to

not let you down.

J. Daisy