memories Archives - Turning the Page on Suicide

Learning to Layer Memories

Posted August 8, 2017 | Karisa Moore

Psalm 77:11Â I shall rememberÂ the deedsÂ of the LORD;Â SurelyÂ I will rememberÂ Your wondersÂ of old.Â

Appalachia is a part of me! When everything seems to be haywire returning home, where I met Christ, is a place of retreat, safety, and remembering the joy of my salvation. As my husband departed with work to New York, my kids deposited for some grandma time, I made the solo trip home.

That is my first miracle.

I only got drowsy once, a quick stop, stretch of legs and I was good to go. It isn’t humanly possible to drive almost three hours on the amount of sleep I am currently getting. Yet God was gracious! He knew the journey was too hard, so he provided, kept me awake and safe.

My second miracle was walking where Jonathan and I have walked and having joy!

Jonathan’s 7th birthday party was held here, in the midst of a thunderstorm.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of layering memories. Â It can be difficult walking a path with major landmarks of pain and sorrow. This trip I met a friend whom I hadn’t seen in years.There is always sorrow attached to remembering Jonathan. But when I create new memories, cherishing and honoring who he was by living defiantly and vibrantly a new life each day what was, becomes what is, and opens me to what will be.

Miracle number three. . . friendship!

I do not travel any of this journey alone. The people around me, you readers, are a joy I pack with me. I grow, mature and love more deeply by being with you! Reconnecting with friends, laughing together, hurting together, listening and celebrating life together keeps me honest. Some of the old thoughts of self-worth have been attempting to creep back in, but you remind me that my worth is found in Jesus Christ alone.

How do you choose to remember? You may have difficult memories, but this world is brimming with possibility! We don’t have to be locked into past sorrow or failure. Begin layering memories and mine starts with remembering the joy of my salvation!

Father, thank you for taking me home and allowing me to reconnect with friends and your beautiful creation. I am so grateful for the time Jonathan and I had together. I confess that I don’t always remember correctly. I dwell on the failure, brokennessÂ of my past and leave you out of it. I have gained so much from your presence in my life. I am not alone, my life is filled with laughter, and you invite me into new adventures. Bless the readers as they layer memories with your goodness. Amen

Grief on the Grill

Posted April 16, 2016 | Karisa Moore

Marinated memories tenderized by time,

simmer and sizzle with laughter on the grill.

Still tender pink andÂ moist with grief.

Yet, each bite bursting withÂ the fresh flavor of hope.

2nd Annual Photo Scavenger Hunt

Posted December 2, 2015 | Karisa Moore

Natalie made her first trip to the farm with her class this year and it got me reminiscing about taking Jonathan to the farm with his class. He wasn’t too sure about “milking the cow”, but he loved the wagon ride and talking about God’s creation.

What are some of your favorite Fall/Winter activities with family, friends or kids?

Patchwork Quilt of Comfort: Wrapping up in the Holy Spirit

Posted September 21, 2015 | Karisa Moore

John 16:7 Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.

In the wee hours of grief I read notes ofÂ remembranceÂ from friends, family and acquaintances, written on Jonathan’s Facebook page. Your patchwork squares ofÂ memories, scripture, and comfort from the cross, gotÂ me through those first nightmarish days. Many of your notes are now recorded on the quilts sewn together by quilters in my church. I can literally snuggle into prayers, scripture and memories.

THANK YOU!