Contributions for 2009

Find a quiet moment during the sometimes magical but often horrendous season upon us and relax and send out a "I love you" and then BELIEVE.

The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors offers the tips to help families supporting a bereaved child over the holidays.

When we remember that no one’s spirit ever dies, we will feel the light of confidence and direction shift in our souls.

I hope you will be able to celebrate the happiness, laughter, and memories that your sibling brought into your life by enjoying this holiday in a new and different way!

Volume 15, Issue 4

My death wish did not come from a desire to stop living. My death wish came from a desire to be with Phil again.

As I move through my grief, I still read When the Bough Breaks at least once a year. I get something new and useful out of it each time; comfort, reassurance and hope.

This book is about nine mothers who lost children who were teens or young adults. After more than seven years, they put into words their experiences.

To help you connect locally, TAPS offers a Community Resource Report: a directory of grief resources and support groups in your local area.

Try to keep in mind that saving everything in boxes and footlockers until you die may prevent others from enjoying memories, finding meaning, or honoring your loved one.

“The Cottrells, Gary Morris, and their whole team are angels for TAPS,” said Bonnie Carroll, TAPS founder and president.

TAPS carried me through those first years by offering a multitude of support, not only with my complicated grief but with other issues, such as benefits.

Volume 15, Issue 3

By running the marathon for TAPS, we are not only paying tribute to our loved ones, but also raising funds to reach out and help others who will face the pain we have had to endure.

A new season...a new way of looking at things and of remembering the joy we shared. I don’t want to miss that anymore, so I’ll just start remembering you as you lived.

The Presidential Memorial Certificate (PMC) is a gold embossed certificate signed by the current President in memory of any honorably discharged deceased veteran.

Betsy Beard clears up the confusion around the Next of Kin and Gold Lapel Buttons awarded to surviving family members.

Although nothing can take away the sorrow and the sense of unfairness that we feel when our brother or sister dies, T.J. Wray's words convey we are not alone.

Volume 15, Issue 2

Life will never be exactly the same again for suicide survivors. However, “different,” given time, can be acceptable and will hopefully become a “good” life.

Make the commitment to grow quiet within and listen to the music of yourself. Take one small footstep each day.

No one is guaranteed tomorrow. But if tomorrow never comes for me, I know that my family will be cared for. I learned from my own story.

Volume 15, Issue 1

Even though death comes, love never goes away. Grow quiet. Sit a spell and reconnect to the magic, the wonder, and the joy that dwells within.

If you become discouraged in your efforts to contemplate your future and figure out who you are now, consider getting additional support from TAPS.

Each grief journey is different and each of us has to navigate our own way along the path, but a few minutes of walking, running, or even dancing, can help.