Special days are very difficult for all of us. I know we are all at different stages of estrangement but we are still missing the adult child who once was part of our lives.

I remember the first couple of years feeling that I could barely make it through. Time must heal in certain ways. I slowly remember I had to remember that there were many other blessings that I could not forget. The first would be the Lord, then other family members, special friends,ect. It was not right for me to ignore the many blessings. Each day is a gift.

Physically and mentally speaking, exercise and massage have always been helpful for me. Christian fellowship (at church or one on one) is another blessing. Lots of alone time with God is another key for me to not only survive but thrive.

I remember sitting in the park on my sins birthday crying and alone. We are back on track now ..... But my youngest son has now walked away. The first time span was four years. Both my sons have said to me in turn... If you come to my house I will phone the police.... I am lost with how you handle such behaviour. Very, very hurt.

Sorry son I meant

Times like this Ruth the most we can do is turn the estrangement over to God and keep praying. If there is any way to let your ES know you still love him you can if you feel led. The one thing we know, though, is only God can change their hearts. The story is not finished, yet. Shalom.

Treat yourself to something special on your b-day and be around those who love and nurture you. Remember God loves you and has a purpose for you. For the EC b-day, I choose to still acknowledge it, but not with gifts - just a call even it its not appreciated, I do it because I will always be the mother.

I have told my son I will always love him.... All he said was im not interested ..go away ..if you think anything of me..leave me alone to get in with my life. I can't have you in my life. So hurtful.

I find I have to plan ahead for those days and keep myself busy. If I don't, and I'm just staying in the house, it does not go well. Even Sundays, I need a plan or it's a very lonely day. There are lovely places to walk around where I live, - parks, a little village called Niagara On The Lake, etc. Also Niagara Falls. I need to be with the people who love me on a fairly frequent basis or I get down. There's a lot to be said for the "fun factor" in life.

This has reminded me that my own birthday is coming up in less than a month. It's on a Sunday. Maybe I'll go away for the whole weekend and celebrate me. :-) I think I'm worth celebrating!

absolutely, agrand, THAT'S what I'm talking about! :)