Saturday Morning Message: Sharing Special Memories
Author: Carol Lane
Good Morning,
In this week's message, the responders share delightful memories of their loved ones. These thoughts put a smile on my face as I read them and I hope you will also enjoy them.
Sharing memories of our loved ones with others who understand brings joy to our hearts and makes TAPS such a special group. Prior to the pandemic, many of us went to seminars in person which is where these two survivors found each other. I chose this picture for the opening, because you can see they are talking and one of them is holding their memorial dog tags with a picture of her loved one attached, so I imagine they are sharing information. Talking about our loved ones is a wonderful way to introduce others to these special people.
Hugs,
Carol Lane
Mother of Bryon
Responses from Survivors to last week's question
What is a special memory of your loved one you would like to share, so we can get to know that person better?
From Elizabeth, spouse of Joseph: The first thing that came to mind when I read the question for the week was something that happened when we first started dating. We were riding along when I noticed a big patch of dandelions. I have no idea why I liked them so much. When I mentioned that, Joe pulled a u-turn on a busy street to stop and pick some for me. Years later when we had a lawn, he never tried to kill them off.
From Christine, spouse of Dennis: My husband loved lima beans. Just as we were about to get married, he told me that all he wanted was lima beans at our dinner. He said you can have anything you want, flowers, cake, invitations, everything, but I want some lima beans. And so, on the day of our wedding, he got some lima beans.
From Essie, mother of Tysheena: Tysheena was a comical young lady. She always would peek in our bedroom door and smile. Then she would come and jump between the both of us and just lay there until her dad would get up. She used to fiddle with his ears or his head. Then he would turn around and tickle her. So special! I often think of all the crazy things we've done, and smile.
If you would like to send a message thanking one or all of those who participated in this week’s Saturday Morning Message, send it to online@taps.org and your thoughts will be passed along to them. You never know how your words may touch the heart of another.
Question for Next Week’s Saturday Morning Message
What is something you did with your loved one that you continue to do?
Elizabeth, spouse of Joseph gave the idea for the next question when she wrote, “Do others continue old habits? I still fold towels the only way Joe liked. I'd never had a preference on folding anything until I met him.”
We all pick up things we didn’t know or do before we met each other, so the next question is: What is something you did with your loved one that you continue to do? We look forward to your responses.
The Saturday Morning Message was created so survivors can share questions and read how others respond. Questions for future messages are always welcome. You can reply to this message or email online@taps.org In order to have your reply included the following week, it is best to send your response by Tuesday morning. Thank you to everyone responding this week and those who read this message.
♫ Song for the Week
This week’s song, "The Way We Were" by Barbara Streisand fit right in with the topic of memories.
You can send me favorite songs for this song of the week section at online@taps.org and include a note about why the song is meaningful to you.
Related Stories
Give Yourself the Gift of Memory
Focusing exclusively on the past and ignoring the present is not healthy. But as you know, memories are all you have.
Video: Passed and Present
This webinar video recording unveils new and innovative ways to help individuals remember and celebrate the family and friends they never want to forget.
Other Items and Events of Interest
Join us on Memorial Day Weekend, May 28 to 30, for our 27th Annual National Military Survivor Seminar! We will be live streaming all of our general sessions with guest speakers.
Important Note: In-person registration is still open, but we are in a waitlist situation due to COVID occupancy restrictions in the State of Virginia.
If you have any questions, email seminarregistrations@taps.org or call our Helpline at 202.588.TAPS (8277).
▶▶ Connect With Your TAPS Family
You can discover all the opportunities to connect with your TAPS Family on our website at the TAPS Event Calendar.
About the Saturday Morning Message
The Saturday Morning Message (SMM) is a weekly communication contributed by survivors. The primary focus of the SMM is to foster peer-based connections for support and encouragement. It is the goal of this communication to foster a safe, supportive place where we can openly share in a nonjudgmental and caring manner. Read and contribute as you are comfortable. Content submitted for the SMM is edited for space considerations and may be used in other TAPS publications. The loving family at TAPS is available to you 24 hours a day. Please call 202-588-TAPS (8277).