Our Christmas Story, to help those

[Frankie]

It is not like me to share personal. But it seems Christmas can be a difficult time for some people and I do hope by my sharing, it will help you through the holidays.

Eleven years ago I lost my husband, he was only 32. My son was only 16 months old at the time. The first few Christmas's were very difficult, now it's hard, but has gotten some easier. Because of my son, who is only 12 and struggling with who he is, I am sure Christmas will always carry some pain with it. But, my son has also taught me the true meaning of Christmas and I hope you will be able to see that as well.

When he was very young we went to the mall to visit with Santa. We stood in line for a good while, listening to all the kids as they asked for their special toy they were hoping for this year. It was then my son's turn. He got up on Santa's lap and played a little shy. Santa asked him if he would like trucks, or cars or a bike. My son just shook his head no. Santa asked if he wanted a sterio, or TV or walkie talkies, and again my son shook his head no. Santa asked, well, what would you like for Christmas? My son just looked up at him and said, well, if you can find me one, I'd really like to have a Dad. Many in line heard what he said, it got so quiet. I cried, and for the first time in my life, I truly knew in my heart what was meant by the Christmas Spirit. Santa told him he would do his best. My son told him if he couldn't get him one he would understand because Dad's were important and were probably hard to find. Santa took a break after my son got down.

A little while ago, we were in the barn cleaning. I said, so, what do you want for Christmas. And my son turned and looked at me and said, you know, I don't even know what my dad's voice sounds like? Can you find me something that would have his voice on it?

As a parent it can be enough to rip your heart out. As someone experiencing this it is our job to share, pass along and hope one person takes it to heart and helps them through the holiday season in whatever way possible.

11 years later this will be a sad and joyous Christmas, as I have my son's video tape with his dad's voice.

To all of you, Very Merry Christmas!

Appreciate your parents, and I hope you hear the voice of the Christmas Spirit.

 

[minisaremighty]

Carolyn,

What a touching story. I had no idea you'd lost your husband and at such a young age. I've always thought you were an incredibly strong woman, but now I'm in awe. Thank you for sharing your story. Your son is lucky to have you as a mom.

 

[sedeh]

Your story had me in tears. Thank you for sharing. What a wonderful son you have!

 

[Whitewave]

What a wonderful story......Thank -you for bringing my Christmas spirit up. As I sit and wonder how I'll get gifts for my own children the thought came to me what my 7 year old son said when I told him Chritmas was going to be small this year he said " Mom all that matters is we have each other ".....God Bless the Children that gives us single parents (and others ) such joy and understanding.

Thank - You and Merry Christmas from Indiana..Go Colts!!

 

[Miniv]

Oh dear.....I have tears reading these posts......I hate crying!

<sigh> Guess my tear-ducts need a cleaning......

MA

 

[MInx]

Bless you and your son. You two seem to share a special wisdon between you that will be cherished and when he's a father he will be a special one!

Maxine

 

[jdomep]

Your son indeed has a heart filled with spirit. Thank you for sharing your story. I can't imagine how emotional your Christmas will be when he hears that tape. Bless you both!

 

[ChrystalPaths]

Caroline, you have a lovely holiday ok? How strong and warm to share this with us. Thanks so much. Give Miss Prints a kiss for me, I miss seeing her!

 

[Frankie]

We always have a great holiday,,,,,mainly in part to this little guy. To be so young, yet understand so much.

Hope the tears shed were because you felt the true Christmas Spirit.

No sadness here, we are truly blessed and embrace that each and every day.

 

[shane]

CAROLYN.....................THANK YOU

 

[justaboutgeese]

There is a very old saying that God gave mothers broad shoulders for a reason. You have carried a load meant for two all these years and in Gods wisdom he knew you were capable of the load.

 

[Voodoo]

Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I am very sorry for your loss, but it seems like you and your son are both strong, loving, and understanding people who can handle it. I have been trying to get back to the real meaning of Christmas for a few years now and your post really helped me out with that. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas this year and for many years to come.

 

[minimama]

Aw CArolyn, I wish I could just give you both a great big hug. You sure made me cry....bawl!! I have been spending this Christmas holiday full of spirit and in such a good mood, I am amazing myself! But, there are so many going through things like what you have gone through and I wish I could fix it and make it better so everyoen could feel the spirit and the love of the holiday. Just hold on tight to that son of yours even when he squirms to get away, and the spirit will be there for you, now......how do we rent kids for all those other people???? Hmmmmmmmm........

 

[Manyspots]

This is a beautiful story of love you have shared with us. Written so we could envision in our own minds it all happening. Bless you. Lavonne

 

[Frankie]

I've got to admit, I am pretty proud of him myself!!

With all we have been through, none making any sense to me. We have never dwelled on "why me", but have tried to find the positive and looked at what happened and how it has shaped us as a person.

Sharing your experiences will always help others in ways you do not see. We both try to offer our help with others going through similiar situations. For us, what other purpose was it for us to go through so much?

Wishing you all the joy of the true Christmas Spirit!

 

[Just Us N Texas]

Thank you! That was a very touching story you shared with us. Probably one of the most feeling "gifts" a lot of us will receive.