Grief would not exist without love.

For any of us to find a reason for our suffering, a purpose to surviving, a meaning to this life that so often seems to destroy us, we must realize there is hope in love.

Without love, I never would have been a mother. Without love, I never would have faith that I will someday be reunited with my son. Without love, I would not have a flock of supporters offering unending encouragement in my darkest days. Without love, I may not have a reason to keep trying to survive.

I spent a few moments at a park today, trying to decompress from the stress of my new normal where everyday tasks seem pointless to me, but of utmost importance to those around me.

I breathed in the crisp spring air. I stared at a beautiful tree and was amazed at the shadow it cast on the freshly cut grass below. I watched as geese swam across the pond and leashed dogs happily trotted next to their owners, all enjoying the early afternoon sun. And I felt love.

Without love, I wouldn’t know that my baby in Heaven is the reason on days like this (when all I want to be doing is sharing these moments with him) I feel love, above all else.

Without love, I wouldn’t have the appreciation that this life is good, even when it is terrible, and exhausting, and sorrowful.

This life is good. Thank goodness for love.