In loving memory of our son, Joshua Scott Connor,

who died February 5, 2001, ten years ago today.

June 22, 1980 - February 5, 2001.

That Feburary morning changed our world again.

How wrong we were to think we were safe from further pain. Once more we must pretend that everything’s all right,

But silence overwhelms us as day turns into night.

We listen for your stereo; no music do we hear.

No footsteps followed by your voice; no shouts of “Mom, I’m here!”

Your laugh that used to make us smile, just one more memory.

The silence has become a roar; its noise is deafening.

But in our dreams you talk to us; your voice, we hear it still.

Both deep and soft, it resonates; and what a tale you tell!

“Mom and Dad, don’t cry for me. I’m safe now with our Lord. And Carrie’s here beside me; she’s not lonely anymore.

Remember how I wondered what Heaven would be like?

This Heaven is an awesome place. Don’t be afraid to die.

I know I promised many times that I’d not leave you too.

That choice was never mine to make; God had other plans for me.

I was so proud to help my friend escape that burning home.

I couldn’t wait to tell you what a hero I’d become.

But someone else there needed help; you know I couldn’t leave.

With one deep breath, I turned inside - and then I went to sleep.

When I awoke, my world had changed; my cares were washed away.

A new adventure waited as I stood at heaven’s gate.

Cry if you must, but keep in mind that laughter was the bond

That helped us get through all our trials and made our family strong.”

So with the dawn, we wake renewed, your words within our hearts,

Drowning out the silence, the day a fresh new start.

For every tear we wipe away, a smile will take its place;

Our memories a gift from God, that nothing will erase.