Reviews from

If I Had Only Known

I remember our last goodbye

41 total reviews 
Comment from Wendy G
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

Your story has been written with feeling and raw emotion, such authenticity and love. Such a sad theme which is very moving and powerful. Very well written. Best wishes for your entry.

 Comment Written 11-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 12-Aug-2021
    Good morning, Wendy

    As always, my heart thanks you for the kind words and glowing stars. DJ was a very special boy and I am glad people feel that in the story. Thank you so much for being so kind. Have a great day!

Comment from royowen
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

There's nothing worse than losing one's child, or a grandchild. They are one of the lousiest experiences one can have. My sister lost her little 18 month old boy, Martin to a disease only a transplant can cure, he died in her arms, I can't imagine the pain, and an ongoing one, the "if only" verbal echoings of regret, but it's not your fault, beautifully and touchingly written, well done, good luck, blessings Roy

 Comment Written 11-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 12-Aug-2021
    Good morning, Roy

    As time goes on, I realize that our Lord has his reasons, but the "Nana" side of me always wondered about the if only....It's not my plan so I learn to accept what I am given... at times it's a struggle. Thank you for your kind and always gracious words. have a great day!
reply by royowen on 12-Aug-2021
    I can imagine how you feel
reply by the author on 12-Aug-2021
    Yes... I am sure you have walked the path as well. My heart aches for everyone who loses a child.
reply by royowen on 12-Aug-2021
    Good job
Comment from Rosemary Everson1
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

If this story is nonfiction, it is definitely sad. But if I remember correctly for this contest it has to be nonfiction. To lose a loved one by drowning is a tragic cause of death...you have my sympathy.

 Comment Written 11-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 12-Aug-2021
    Thank you Rosemary...

    It is a true story. Actually I have lost two children and a grandchildren in my life time when I thought they would outlive me. It's a painful grief that doesn't go away.... it gives you breathers time to time and then comes rushing back. Thank you for your kindness.

    Have a great day!
Comment from NABattaglia
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

This is so hard and a tough subject to write about. You did it so well. I really like how you developed this from start to finish. Thank you for sharing this and best of luck in the contest.

 Comment Written 11-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 12-Aug-2021
    Thank you so much for your kindness.

    Grief doesn't ever go away but at times it gives us a breather before it rushes back in. I appreciate your review and your heartfelt words.

    Have a great day!
Comment from Sandra Stoner-Mitchell
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

'If only's' come thick and fast after the event, but there is no way you could have known this would happen. That your son and grandson died so tragically, was terrible. I can understand why you wouldn't want to leave the pond, leaving him there alone... I would've been the same. The one thing that would keep me going is that your son and grandson are together, they aren't alone. I'm so very sorry for your losses, I weep for you. Warm hugs. Sandra xxx

 Comment Written 11-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 11-Aug-2021
    Good day, my friend.
    I live in a glass house with sorrow, but I fill my heart with the good memories and the thought that they are together with so many more of our family. Thank you. Smiles and hugs for the kind review.
Comment from Anne Johnston
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Great entry for this contest. I admire you for sharing all these memories. I know you still sorrow over the loss of your loved ones. This is well written and I hope you do well in the contest.

 Comment Written 11-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 11-Aug-2021
    Thank you Anne. I know all of us feel the loss of our loved ones and we can only hold on to the memories and their love until we meet them again. Smiles and hugs for the kind review and best wishes.
reply by Anne Johnston on 11-Aug-2021
    You are welcome, have a great day
Comment from Lana Marie
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

Wow, this is a really tough memory to relive! I'm so sorry you all went through this! It sounds like the two of you had such a great bond and love for each other. XOXO

 Comment Written 10-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 11-Aug-2021
    Thank you, Lana....

    He was a wonderful boy. I was stunned at the length of a seventeen year old boys funeral procession...He'd touched so many and everyone wanted to give a little back. Your kind words are so appreciated. Have a great day!
reply by Lana Marie on 11-Aug-2021
Comment from Mary Vigasin
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

First, I am so sorry for you and your family's loss for such an amazing young man. Your story not only shows the pain of time, but you also showed your reader the joy of living this young man had and the love he gave to others.
May he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Mary

 Comment Written 10-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 11-Aug-2021
    Thank you, Mary

    He was a wonderful boy. I was stunned at the length of a seventeen year old boys funeral procession...He'd touched so many and everyone wanted to give a little back. Your kind words are so appreciated. Have a great day!
Comment from dellsworthpoet
Exceptional
This work has reached the exceptional level

A captivating story told with love and tenderness. The words were flowing and solemn with a slightly joyful undertone. The language used was well chosen to resonate with rich timber.

I have no suggestions.

Thank you for sharing. Good luck with the contest.

 Comment Written 10-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 11-Aug-2021
    thank you....

    He was a special young man. So many wanted to speak about him at his funeral...from teachers, friends, coaches, neighbors, etc. He touched so many with his love and joy. My heart breaks each time I remember he's gone.

    I thank you for the kindness and the stars!
    Smiles and hugs
reply by dellsworthpoet on 11-Aug-2021
    You are welcome.
Comment from Jannypan (Jan)
Excellent
Not yet exceptional. When the exceptional rating is reached this is highlighted

What a poignant story you told so well, Mystery Author. My sincere condolences for your loss even though many years have probably passed. I believe as a family member, this event will always be in your heart and on your mind. I commend you for sharing it here.
Best wishes.
Respectfully, Jan

This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.

 Comment Written 10-Aug-2021


reply by the author on 11-Aug-2021
    Thank you, Jan

    It's approaching twelve years, but often it seems like yesterday. He was a very special young man who would do anything to help others. He made his Nana feel special too!

    Have a great day!