Dear God,

Can you hear me? Please, God, Do you hear my cries? The ones that echo pain deep within my mind and heart. She is gone, God. My little girl is dead. And I love her so. I've tried to pray, to seek and to beg yet still, she is gone. I would have given my life for hers...

I do not understand. You see, God, she left so suddenly. Without saying goodbye - or even hello. How can it be that she has changed my life so? How can it be that others think I should forget her so abruptly and go on with my life? How can I pretend that she did not exist?

For her life and death has brought me on my knees, to You. And now, I seek the peace, which only Your midst can harbor to ease this overwhelming grief. But, still God, I feel cheated. I feel so very desperate for her presence. I never looked into her eyes. I never told her how much she meant to me. I never kissed her gently with the smile of a proud mother, but only with tear burdened eyes. But you can God. Please, please tell her for me. For I know she is in Your care.

Tell her that her beauty has left me many priceles gifts. Tell her that I think of her - everyday, every hour, every moment. Tell her how deeply I love and miss her. Hold her in Your majestic arms, just for me, Lord. Rock her gently and whisper in her ear. Tell her that her Mommy aches for her, still and always.

For only the strength that remains is the strength which You grant me in knowing that You, and only You, Father can love her the way that I do...

Amen

By Joanne Cacciatore, an excerpt from the book "Dear Cheyenne"
© 1996, 1998 All Right Reserved

5 years ago today you were taken from us. Leaving us with gaping holes in our hearts that will never be filled.

I picture you as a soft-spoken little girl with intense, dark eyes & dark hair...a raven-haired beauty with a shy smile. I know you have many little angel boy admirers in Heaven...they can't resist your shy smile or your adorable giggle. We can't resist your charms either, sweet Emmy Kate. Your Daddy & I have been enamored by your presence since the day we found out that our love had created you. Our love for you fills our hearts & overflows...esp. today as we remember the moments we had with you and as we dream of the moment we'll hold you again.

Mommy's aching for you today, sweetheart. My heart hurts because I miss you so much.

We hope you'll spend the day smiling, giggling, & playing w/ your brothers, sisters, & angel friends. We'll be sending you b-day balloons later today. Sending you ((((((HUGS)))))) and *kissies* up to Heaven...today & forever.

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Always...we'll love you, Emmy Kate!

~Mama(Sheila)