Three months ago, I wrote a blog called Community. (Check it out if you haven’t already). In this blog, I talked about the fantastic community that we have had throughout Archer’s life and how that community has continued to support us after his passing. 

Three months ago, I would have never imagined what my community looked like today. We still have all the same individuals supporting and praying for us that we did. But we have so many more people we have met supporting us in different ways.

We have met outstanding individuals who have experienced loss and started groups, communities, and events that we can attend. We have been able to talk about Archer and our grief, meet people, and do things that help us honor Archer. These individuals have followed a calling placed on their lives to help those who have gone through grief. I cannot imagine my world without these people and their support groups. 

Theo and I have, unfortunately, but fortunately, met so many people who have lost their child(ren), as well. I say “unfortunately” because we all wish we had never met because of the death we experienced; I’m fortunate to have met them because they are also willing to talk about their experiences and hear about mine. Not only that, they get it. 

At one point after we met some of these people, we were all crying around a table, and the next minute, we were making jokes and comments that no one else would understand. However, it allows us to process what we are feeling and going through. You are some of the few people that truly understand.

When you meet people who have lost their child(ren), you also get to meet their children. Not physically or here on earth, but I have been able to hear about the impact the child has made on their parents, hear about memories of their little ones, and see the love the parents had for their baby. My heart has a special place for all the children I have gotten to know through their parents. I think about them often, and I imagine Archer playing with them in heaven. 

I hope that you all know who you are. I appreciate you all. Thank you for sharing your child(ren)’s memory and life with me. I’m glad I’ve met you, but of course, I’m not happy for the reason we met.