Please note that this post contains affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward MageeNews.com a small commission – at no extra cost to you.
I had a wonderful Christmas and received awesome presents! Watching others open their gifts is my favorite Christmas pastime .
One of the most precious gifts I received this year came in the form of friends of Larkin’s from the past. After loosing a son, one of my greatest fears has always been that Larkin would be forgotten. His name would not be spoken.
This year, two of Larkin’s friends came to see me because of their love for Larkin.
Jason Yarbrough, his wife and son appeared at my door. I almost fainted. I have not seen Jason in years. We keep up with one another but actually seeing him…what a gift. In seeing Jason, I saw Larkin. Jason and Larkin were best of friends.Jason was quiet and steadfast. Larkin was loud and wild. Their personalities were just in sync.
Jeff Venerable and two of his children stopped for a visit. I cannot express the kindness Jeff has shown me through the years. He visits every time he comes to Magee. When he comes in the house, he always says, “I’ve been to visit Larkin before I came.” My goodness. I think of Jeff and his sons standing before Larkin’s tombstone…Jeff is probably one of the most caring young men I know. He is a fine husband, father, son, friend, and employee. Larkin had the upmost respect for Jeff.
One of my “crews” dined at Shivers Fish House Friday night. A young man, Tom Wallace who graduated with Larkin, sought me to speak and give me a hug. I knew he never forgot.
I am not going to share this families name. But, since Larkin died (and that has been 22 Christmases) this family has memorialize his life. Wow—22 years never missing a Christmas. The family created a. “Remembering the Children Memorial.” The families desire for me to known that my child is not forgotten, but instead his life is cherished and celebrated. The family chooses a different agency every year but always something involving children. This year, their choice was a donation to “Safe Haven Baby Boxes.” The family had no idea I have been aware of Baby Boxes and presented several stories on MageeNews.com. Their donation will sponsor a medical bag at the location of a baby box, which will have a tag stating the bag was donated by Remembering the Children;Memorial. Talk about walking the walk and reaching out to others, this family has never left my side.
As a mother who lost a child, I can tell you…reach out to that family. Say their child’s name. Talk about the fun times. My heart is burdened for the families that are experiencing their first Christmas following the death of their child. Every single day and year is a challenge. But, with God’s gracious love, I can face tomorrow.
MageeNews.com is an online news source serving Simpson and surrounding counties as well as the State of Mississippi.
I love your article, you, and the precious ones who came to see you. Coming to express their love and remembrance of our Larkin was truly a gift. Not a daddy passes without remembrance. ❤️
Not a day passes without remembrance.