This poem is dedicated to my son, Aiden William Carter.

The holidays before your death, were filled with love and joy.

From infancy to teenage years, you were such a lively boy.

You’d crack a joke, say something silly and we would all be rolling,

And who can forget that time you wrote in permanent marker on your face, as Santa you were trolling.

You ran, you jumped, you sang so loud, you loved the holidays.

My heart was warmed by the love we shared throughout the years and days.

But other times, were not so good, relationships are hard,

And growing up can be so tough, I wish I had known how hard.

I now look around at holidays and see the empty chair and so very much is missing with you no longer there.

I try to put on the happy face and enjoy the season anyway, but love this deep will always hurt since you went away.

Some who grieve, many silently, will make the effort for the season,

to love and be present for those that remain, friends and family are the reason.

Others are too overwhelmed by the sight of the empty chair,

and retreat inward because the pain is so deep, and it is just too much to bear.

This year I remember that grief has no end date and hug everyone a little tighter,

I will say your name, remember the good times and find ways to keep your light forever shining brighter.

Until I leave my chair to join you, all my love to my son, Aiden William Carter, loved by many, still in our hearts!

September 18, 2004 – August 28, 2022