Just So You Know

I read this poem in church shortly after Amberlee passed away. I desperately wanted people that I know to quit treating me so differently. Some people tried to help and they just said the wrong things...things that hurt even though they did noy intend it that way. I am sharing it with you today...becuase I still feel the same...and I hope that you can find peace and understanding in these heartfelt words.

Don't Tell Me

Please don't tell me you know how I feel,
Unless you have lost your child too,
Please don't tell me my broken heart will heal,
Because that is just not true,
Please don't tell me my (daughter) is in a better place,
Though it is true, I want (her) here with me,
Don't tell me someday I'll hear (her) voice, see (her) face,
Beyond today I cannot see,
Don't tell me it is time to move on,
Because I cannot,
Don't tell me to face the fact (she) is gone,
Because denial is something I can't stop,
Don't tell me to be thankful for the time I had,
Because I wanted more,
Don't tell me when I am my old self you will be glad,
I'll never be as I was before,
What you can tell me is you will be here for me,
That you will listen when I talk of my child,
You can share with me my precious memories,
You can even cry with me for a while,
And please don't hesitate to say (her) name,
Because it is something I long to hear everyday,
Friend please realize that I can never be the same,
But if you stand by me, you may like the new person I become someday.
Judi Walker(In Memory of Shane)
Copyright 1998

Update: A Well known LDS Artist Hilary Weeks has produced a song set to this poem. It will be coming out on her new album. I cannot wait to hear it, and cry as I know I will.