What we carry when we love a child who still needs us

My greatest fear is not dying — it’s leaving before my grandchild fully understands how fiercely she was loved. — Denise Cruz

-Denise Cruz

I do not pray for a longer life for me. I pray for enough time to make her strong enough to live without me. —

-Denise Cruz

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Ambiguous grief is the feeling experienced from the loss of a loved one who is still living but absent physically or psychologically.

“the absurdity of ambiguous loss reminds people that life is not always rational and just; consequently, those who witness it tend to withdraw rather than give neighborly support, as they would do in the case of a death in the family.”

– Pauline Boss

“There are no casseroles or sympathy cards for ambiguous grief —just silence, and the ache of what might have been.”

– Unknown

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Boundaries are not walls—they are lessons: they protect the children, preserve our lives, and teach our adult children respect.

“We teach people how to treat us.”

– Dr. Phil

“Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others.” 

– Brene Brown

“When we fail to set boundaries, we end up feeling used and mistreated.” 

– Melody Beattie