I cannot believe how much this woman touched my life. She was my total rock when my mother was dying and I felt like I was bleeding in the streets. If you have ever had to watch another person wither and die from cancer it is the most terrible thing I would not wish on my greatest enemy.

I look back now and wonder how I was even able to smile at this time in my life. It was the strength of another woman who allowed me to press on and to give me greater reasons to live when I felt all reason had left me.

I wrote this for her on a park bench in an empty farm field in the mountains. I ended up there one day after my mother died and penned this to her. This photo was taken about 2 months after my mothers passing when I still was in a daze. My mother was my best friend, and I miss her dearly.

Who You've Been To Me.

In my darkest hour you came into my life
The blackness of the cancer; the struggle and the strife

Your warm calls kept me snuggled;
I hang on every word
Will life just fly away dear Betsy; to escape just like the bird?

I live my story while you gently hold my hand
Do I have the strength dear Betsy; to become a better man?

You have your own life story; to which I become a part
Our paths have intersected; forever in my heart

Who you have been to be; is an angel from above
How can this stranger; be filled with so much love?

She is no stranger now; I have shared with her my world
I cant believe she cares for me as my life becomes unfurled.

I am fairly certain that I don't know whats to come
I wish to remain present; despite tears that everrun

Who you have been to me; the sunshine inside my night
A kindling of fire you are; who gives me hope from fright.

Life brings so many questions; I don't know where to start
How was it you came to me; to touch my broken heart?

Not sure I have the answer; but by grace from up above
As my mother looks upon me; and shines down all her love

Thanks for reading!

TJ.