Remembering children who have died too soon

For the eleventh year in a row, on the second Sunday in December, there will be a worldwide remembrance for children who have died too soon. It is called the Compassionate Friends Worldwide Candle Lighting.

Those of us who have children can never imagine the depth of sorrow and loss created by the death of a child. In Wiscasset, this event is again being organized by Nancy Wyman, who lost her son, Daniel Leeman, in August of 2003 in an ATV accident when he was only 24 years old. With Thanksgiving and Christmas both centered around the love of family, this is a particularly hard time of year for those of us who have lost the love of a family member. The loss is much like a deep wound that only heals with the passing of time. Shakespeare said it best: "What wound did ever heal but by degrees?"

Family members and friends, and sometimes strangers, offer solace to us at these times of our lives. Thus, a gathering, of Compassionate Friends, is planned for Sunday, December 9 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wiscasset Community Center. This will be the fifth year it has been held in Wiscasset. The ceremony begins at 7 p.m. It is open to all. People are encouraged to bring candles, pictures of their lost loved one, and if they so desire, to tell others about the child they are remembering.

To the family of Daniel Leeman, to the families of others who will join them in this remembrance, and to all who only have memories of their children to comfort them, we offer our sympathy and support…

"…that their light may always shine."