Sometimes in my work I get good news and some times I get really bad news. This week brought bad news. Michael, one of my past clients died this weekend. He had been abused as a young boy by clergy, that abuse was so powerful that even in his 40s he could never escape the pain of his nightmare. That nightmare became so unbearable that he took his life.
Michael was a handsome, bright, creative, loving person. He was also a lost child searching for peace. His devoted companion, a loving dog was his angel on his worst days. He told me once she always gave him something to live for. He loved his family, his parents and his friends and he tried to hang on for those people. It is a tragic day when an abuse survivor gives up, but the loss of Michael is even more profound knowing how truly loved he was by so many.
I am grateful for knowing Michael and I am grateful for the trust he placed in me while I worked with him during a difficult time. I know he finally has the peace that he has longed for in his life. Michael we will all miss your smile and we will especially miss seeing you walk into a room with your beloved dog. I smile knowing you are that beautiful young boy again surrounded by angels. Rest in Peace my friend!
I am sorry…this is very sad. I am certain your work on his behalf meant a great deal to him.
Dawn,
I am sad for you, and for your client today. Sometimes our profession can be painful. I am sure your chosen area can be especially difficult.
Remember though that you make a difference in the lives of your clients. You also make a major difference in the world. You expose the truth, so that others may better defend themselves and their children.
The world is a better place because of what you do and who you are.
I am sorry for your loss.
Ditto everything that Mr. Sting said – he so eloquently found all of the words I could not.
Words cannot express the sadness this leaves to those who pour their hearts, energy, and hope into helping the victims of stolen childhood. We can only find joy in remembering their smile – the slivers of peace and their moments of feeling believed. We do make a difference – if only for a brief moment in their tormented lives…the tragedy lies wherein their peace is only found by leaving those who do care and who have helped to carry on in strength – in their memory – and to continue to fight for their cause. I’m sorry my dear friend. We have lost many – and cannot save all..But for one life spared to such cruelty, carry on my friend….as the true warrior you are.
Dawn:
Thanks for sending me an email about your blog today. I’m so sorry to hear about your past client, Michael. That poor man. You can feel good knowing that you helped him in some way and that you acknowledged his pain and the wrongs done to him. May he be in peace now.
Dawn,
Words seem so ineffective at a time like this. However, please know that you will, at some point, be able to put this particular time in your life into its proper perspective and that you will continue to be able to help others who will come along.
Peace