Sunday, May 23, 2010

Bittersweet

Tonight we had my family over to celebrate Sam's 5th birthday. I'll post more about the celebration later, that's not what's on my mind. Every year, every event, every milestone that we celebrate with him still leaves me with a twinge of longing. As much as I try not to, I can't help but reflect on what life would have been like if Ben had survived. We'd have celebrated two birthdays tonight. Joe would have been assembling two bikes. I wonder, would we have done two cakes, or would they have shared one? You get the idea.
I miss him. I miss what our life could have (should have?) been with our twin boys. I wish that Sam could really understand that he has a twin brother. Someday he will. Someday we'll all be together again.
Memorial day is coming up and, like every year, I wish that I could visit his grave in Utah. He was buried on Memorial day. The cemetary opened early so that we could have a graveside service before the crowds came. I know that he won't be forgotten because he is buried with lots of relatives from my Dad's side of the family. There will be flowers on his grave. But I still wish that I could go.
Life is happy and good and I have so many things to be grateful for. But I miss my Benjamin. Sometimes I just have to allow myself to feel that. And then life continues on...

Benjamin Joseph Lodge
May 24-28, 2005

(Picture taken May 28, 2005)

7 comments:

The Lovells said...

I hear you! Someday it will all feel right and complete, like it should. My Isaac is in Idaho so I depend on others visiting him as well as we don't get to see him much.

Kristin said...

I'm not going to pretend I have the slightest bit of knowledge on how you feel, but we want you to know that we love you and are thinking of Ben and your family.

Reid Family said...

You are such a great mom! I am sure Ben is with you more than you realize. I can't imagine how you feel. Our hearts are with you and your family.

Melanie said...

Your post made me cry. You are amazing!

Breanna said...

The dreams that never have a chance at life are so hard!! I feel your pain in a completely different way. The reality that your hopes and dreams for a life you could have, but can't be is a hard thing to just let go of. I'm so glad you shared that. Made me cry. Life is hard sometimes. Can't wait for our grand reward later!!!

Julie Clark said...

I understand. Maybe we can share a hug together at the reunion. :o)

Jill and Lonnie said...

Good for you for letting yourself feel your emotions. I think they are all part of the process. I love you!