My Son

My dear son

Only hours ago, you learned of
  the passing of your friend.

I can only imagine those hours
  took forever to unfold,
  each moment opening your
  innocent heart to the ravages
  that only death
  can impart.

I cry for your friend,
  not yet an adult,
  and the experiences she
  will never have in this lifetime.

And, I cry for the loss of your
  innocence,
  for having been visited by death,
  you are forever touched
  by knowledge that we are all
  mortal.

There is a sorrow in that realization,
  the depths from which you feel
  you may never emerge.

The earth shakes under your feet.

Reality suddenly looks and feels different.
  It is unfamiliar, scary, and unwanted.

You have just been launched on a journey
  that may take years to unfold
  and for which you may feel entirely
  unprepared.

The fact is, sweetie, none of us is really prepared
  for life as it comes to us.
  But, we have each other, and we have
  the love of God and guidance
  of our spirit guides.

We all hold you now, closely,
  in a love that nothing - not even death -
  can touch.

As you face the terror and mystery
  of death,
  know that we are by your side,
  even when you can't feel us...

Forever and a day.