You Were There

Statistics indicate that we, as a society, are entering a time of year that is very difficult for many people. Research indicates that the upcoming changes of season serve as triggers for an overwhelming number of individuals within our society. These triggers can birth devastating repercussions for vulnerable souls, and their loved ones.

When serving in my vocation as a social worker, I witnessed the emotional strain the coming time of year can bring. These experiences I had with the people I served drove me to write the following piece. Intended as a monologue, this piece was inspired by real-life trauma experienced by everyday families. It is my hope that, in sharing it here, this post will serve as a source of encouragement for families going through the agonizing strain of loving those who require a love that perseveres through sorrow and strife.

You Were There 

An original monologue by Bectoria Stafford 

At the dawning of my highest need, 
You were there. 
To teach me, guide me and protect me… Always,
You were there.
When others faded into the background as distant memories, still…
You were there.
When the high times morphed into lows, 
As the afternoon sun set on my quick wit and charm, 
When all that was left was my authentic, angry self… Still, 
(In disbelief) you were there. 
When it seemed as if this great big world would swallow me whole,
You were there. 
When nothing seemed right anymore,
And all that I had seemed to never be enough.
In the twilight of my rage!
You were there.
When I hated life and God and everybody, but really just hated who I had become…
Surely, softly, stable… 
You were there. 
When I was ready to run away from it all with reckless abandon, 
When all hope was lost,
When nothing else mattered,
Amidst the midnight of my mind…
You were there.
When I would stumble and fall only to fail again,
Ever-constant,
You were there.
And now, as the darkness breaks away at the promise of a bright, new dawn, 
I bury my demons and 
I turn to face this world, 
And stand at the ready,
Armed with confidence and anticipation,
Welcoming my brilliant future!
Only because…
(Pointing out, nodding as if to say "you were there")

A Note From Mom

As we approach Mother's Day, I am reminded of the friends and family who are missing their own mothers who have passed on. It is my hope that this note will bless their hearts.

A Note From Mom

By Bectoria Stafford

My journey’s over now, and I’ve gone home, my children, you must feel all alone,

I’ve held you close, I’ve hugged you tight, and now we’ve had our last “good-night,”

I write this note, before I go, with lessons I want you to know,

In our fallen world, there is deception, in a sea of norms, be the exception,

Hold doors, learn names,

Give and forgive freely, so you’ll never know shame,

Open your hearts, to open minds,

Show the Love of your God, Divine,

Introduce yourself, take a chance,

In the wash of “I don’t knows,” take a stance,

When you meet others, look them in the eye, speak from the heart, and never lie,

Love each other, as God loves you, and read your Bible, because it’s true,

Live your life and know you’re free, and when it’s all over, you’ll come see me,

With Jesus there, He’ll welcome you in, He’ll hug you tight, your life-long friend,

Because of the grace that He gave you, you’ll be there forever in your body new,

Of all the things I could teach you, it’s what Jesus did, just for you,

That matters most, that matters at all, so in your faith, you’ll stand up tall,

To be your mom, I’ve been truly blessed, to teach you about His righteousness,

Because of Jesus and His sacrifice, you are free from sin, because He paid the price,

They say a mother’s love will never end, so show your tears, and don’t pretend,

A comforting warmth is your mother’s love, in fellowship with God above,

My life is not lost, for I am free, with my Savior for eternity,

Because of our Savior, we will meet again, so live your life fully until then,

And remember, because of Jesus Christ,

We’ll be together, forever, with Him, in paradise.

Love Always,

Mom