If you’d ask me to imagine life 20 years ago, the plans I’d made would fail to match real events.
I would never want to picture:
– losing a child,
– a tornado destroying parts of our home,
– a miscarriage,
– or nearly losing a spouse to colon cancer.
I’d never imagined those events in a short span of time, two years.
Some have said I had bad luck, and a select few judged my actions and reactions while I was in the process of grappling with reality. Yet, I know none would wish to walk in my shoes, nor would I want them to experience it.
I’ll never stop talking about Corrie just as I won’t with our son. Anyone in camp negativity has their location away from me.
In year 3, I’ve been able to let go of a lot, and find joy again. I finally had a normal year, which helped. Corrie would want us to laugh.
For as much as we have suffered, John, my husband, and I have found much to celebrate. Just like George Harrison’s song Here Comes the Sun, we are finding ourselves in the light again.
On the first Angel Anniversary after Corrie died, we mourned. I wished to avoid all people. Last year, we laid low at the house. This year, I’ve been more productive in advancing Corrie’s memory in meaningful ways, such as making holiday trees at Christmas. Starting a second Memorial Garden has kept my focus on our home, and I add plants Corrie would love. The gardens give me a good reason to talk about Corrie in a way in which she is still part of this world.
Both John and I have started finding newer and stronger versions of ourselves. Our son, Hayes, set the example in his deep well of strength in not caring what others think of him. I’m bringing back my sense of humor, I’m more social and blunt if anyone has an issue with my story in any way.
But, I’d say overall, John and I have found good family and friends who stand behind us. They support us.
John and I had planned a trip to Savannah, but left around mid-day when the bright, sunny weather wouldn’t let up for the mountains. We lit Corrie’s annual candle for 5 1/2 minutes.
Who knows where we go from here, but we will keep going together and raise our son.
Corrie's Season 