Always Searching For His Laughter

@CarolDM (203396)
Nashville, Tennessee
December 9, 2022 5:13pm CST
Tried to stay busy all day today. Worked on a lot of projects around the house. Created new projects to stay busy. And I managed to get a lot done. More donations are ready to be delivered to needy families. Missing my only child Dustin today and always of course. Lost him on this day many years ago. He took his life at only 16 years old. And I had just walked through the door from work. Witnessed the entire thing. It still to this day flashes before my eyes more times that you can imagine. PTSD keeps me on edge many nights and days. Dustin always made me smile. Had a great sense of humor. His friends looked up to him like a big brother. Always asking advice. He was years beyond his age. We watched a lot of funny movies together. He could act like many of the actors. Anything to make me smile. I have searched for his voice and sometimes I can still hear him. I hear his laugh. And his jokes in my mind. Another one of those difficult December days. Would not wish this experience on anyone. Cannot get the photo to load. I will try another one. He and my brother were fishing here. I try to remember how he lived, not how he died. He would want it that way too.
31 people like this
29 responses
@Juliaacv (56282)
• Canada
10 Dec 22
What a great picture, they both seem so engaged on the fish that Dustin is reeling in. Getting things ready to donate sounds like something who always wanted to make his mother laugh would want you do on such a day as this. It is the worse day of the year for any parent when their child's anniversary comes. I know that my day will be here on March 2nd.
6 people like this
@Juliaacv (56282)
• Canada
10 Dec 22
@CarolDM Yes, I remember that your day of memories is just the day before mine is. My hubby always tells me that when we pass we won't have to wait in line, as we have had our hell here living days and years and decades without our child.
3 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
Thanks, this was a very special time when my brother taught Dustin to fish. They were very close. Dustin really liked me laughing. And he had a dry sense of humor. So funny. Today has been one of those days for sure. December is not on my calendar any more. I told my friend that yesterday. I had to explain all of the losses. She had forgotten so many passed this month. Life is something else for sure.
5 people like this
@Treborika (18194)
• Mombasa, Kenya
10 Dec 22
It is so hurting sometimes to remember the best memories with our loved ones who passed away and Can't find them anymore. So sorry for the loss of loved son.
2 people like this
@rebelann (117240)
• El Paso, Texas
10 Dec 22
That's the worst thing any parent could ever experience
6 people like this
@rebelann (117240)
• El Paso, Texas
10 Dec 22
You're ever so welcome.
2 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
Thank you so much for the hugs. Much needed. Life can be so unfair.
3 people like this
@RebeccasFarm (91297)
• United States
10 Dec 22
What a cutie he was in that photo with your brother Carol He looks so excited! We never want to forget any of our loved ones RIP all. The flashbacks for you must be so intense to say the very least. So sorry Carol. You lost your only child in the worst possible way.
4 people like this
• United States
10 Dec 22
@CarolDM You know I am in awe of your daily strength no need for thanks, thank you first RIP beloved sweet boy Dustin.
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
A favorite photo memory indeed. Thank you. He loved fishing. Yes my PTSD gets pretty bad at times. I learn how to deal the best I can. Thanks for always being so kind.
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
11 Dec 22
1 person likes this
@Tampa_girl7 (54715)
• United States
10 Dec 22
What a precious photo and precious memories. I wish you peace and comfort Carol. It’s wonderful that you can hear his laughter.
3 people like this
@Tampa_girl7 (54715)
• United States
11 Dec 22
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
Thank you Marie.
1 person likes this
@JudyEv (382147)
• Rockingham, Australia
10 Dec 22
I'm so so sorry. No wonder you don't 'do' Christmas like so many of us. What a sad post but what a lovely photo. Dustin looks like he is having so much fun there.
3 people like this
@JudyEv (382147)
• Rockingham, Australia
11 Dec 22
@CarolDM Sending lots of hugs and kind thoughts.
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
Thank you Judy. I try not to bring this up too often. I know others are being happy about Christmas. But I still want to keep his memories alive by sharing. It is the most difficult time of the year. Also lost my sister on Christmas Day. As if the other was not enough. Yes, Dustin loved fishing.
2 people like this
@RubyHawk (99367)
• Atlanta, Georgia
10 Dec 22
Losing a child is the most painful hurt in the world. But as I say about my son , Dustin will always live in your heart. He will never be far away.
3 people like this
@RubyHawk (99367)
• Atlanta, Georgia
10 Dec 22
@CarolDM Absolutely not, it's the worst thing in the world.
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
We should never outlive our children.
1 person likes this
@kaylachan (84815)
• Daytona Beach, Florida
9 Dec 22
*hugs* I am sorry for your loss. I understand this is a painful time for you. To have to witness that.... no one should have to. If you need to talk, ever, I'm willing to listen.
3 people like this
@kaylachan (84815)
• Daytona Beach, Florida
10 Dec 22
@CarolDM You're welcome.
2 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
Thank you Kayla. A parent's worst nightmare. You are appreciated.
2 people like this
@jobelbojel (36796)
• Philippines
10 Dec 22
You can always go back to this memory. I am sorry that Dustin was gone at a very young age.
2 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
11 Dec 22
Thank you very much.
1 person likes this
@jobelbojel (36796)
• Philippines
12 Dec 22
@CarolDM you are welcome. There is always purpose for everything
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
12 Dec 22
@jobelbojel But no purpose or reason in losing my child. He was my world.
@LadyDuck (502491)
• Italy
10 Dec 22
Oh Carol, what a terrible day to remember, but your laughter and in your heart and will be forever with you. What a beautiful picture, such a cute little man.
2 people like this
@LadyDuck (502491)
• Italy
11 Dec 22
@CarolDM - December is full of bad memories also for me, not the best month of the year.
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
I have removed December from my calendar. It is just too hard. I try not to talk about it often. Others are trying to enjoy their holidays. Thank you, he always got compliments about how handsome he was.
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
11 Dec 22
@LadyDuck So sorry. Thoughts are with you.
1 person likes this
@wolfgirl569 (135791)
• Marion, Ohio
10 Dec 22
So very sorry for you. Hang onto the good things and try to forget the rest. I know its not easy at all.
2 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
Thanks so much Eva. I am trying.
1 person likes this
@RasmaSandra (98033)
• Daytona Beach, Florida
10 Dec 22
Virtual hugs to you, I know very well how it all feels but you know he is with you and watching over you. Someday you will have the pleasure of hearing his laughter again. That is what I always try to do remember the good times even if I get misty-eyed,
2 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
Much appreciated. Your kindness is always there. I am sorry for you as well. We all need each other through these times.
2 people like this
@Deepizzaguy (122196)
• Lake Charles, Louisiana
9 Dec 22
It is always best to remember love how they lived and spread happiness during their time of life.
2 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
9 Dec 22
I am working on it. Thanks for your kindness.
2 people like this
@Deepizzaguy (122196)
• Lake Charles, Louisiana
10 Dec 22
@CarolDM You are welcome. I can relate to losing a relative at a young age due to illness.
2 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
@Deepizzaguy Sorry for your loss.
1 person likes this
@LindaOHio (222417)
• United States
10 Dec 22
What a wonderful photo. What can I say, Carol? I never had children; so I have no concept of how terrible this is for you. I can just imagine. I'm glad you can keep yourself busy and remember the good times. I'm sorry for the bad memories; and I wish I could take them all away for you.
2 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
Not much anyone can say to be honest. I just try to share a bit of Dustin here and there. It sometimes helps. Thanks for being such a kind friend.
1 person likes this
@MarieCoyle (59239)
10 Dec 22
It has to hurt you so, so much. I can't say anything to make it better for you, I surely do wish I could. I know you treasure your memories. They aren't as good as the real thing, but they do help somewhat.
2 people like this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
10 Dec 22
Beyond any pain I ever thought I could endure Marie. Memories are what keep me going as I always say.
2 people like this
@much2say (57760)
• Los Angeles, California
11 Dec 22
Many hugs out your way on this day - and everyday. I truly understand about keeping busy. Little Dustin's fishing stance is so cute there, something mature about that too. Remember those smiles, laughs and good times .
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
11 Dec 22
Thanks for your support. Much appreciated. I loved this moment in time. He was so close to my brother. And he caught lots of fish.
1 person likes this
@much2say (57760)
• Los Angeles, California
13 Dec 22
@CarolDM That age is so precious. Photos certainly take us back to these sweet moments. Dustin was surrounded by lots of love - and fish .
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
13 Dec 22
@much2say Yes he was but apparently not enough. Thank you as always.
1 person likes this
@1creekgirl (44560)
• United States
13 Dec 22
Oh, Carol, my heart breaks for you. I love the photo...I know he was the light of your life. I'm so glad you shared those memories with us.
1 person likes this
@1creekgirl (44560)
• United States
14 Dec 22
@CarolDM You know you'll continue to be in my prayers.
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
14 Dec 22
1 person likes this
@CarolDM (203396)
• Nashville, Tennessee
13 Dec 22
Such a hard time no matter how long he has been gone. It never gets easier. I am distancing myself from others this time of year as I always do. Waiting on January to arrive. Your friendship means a lot. Appreciate your kindness, always. Again, thoughts are with you and your upcoming surgery.
1 person likes this
@just4him (323168)
• Green Bay, Wisconsin
10 Dec 22
I am so sorry for the pain of your loss. I'm glad you have many memories to make you smile.
2 people like this
@aninditasen (18198)
• Raurkela, India
10 Dec 22
It's a lovely picture and love that you share it with us.
2 people like this
@thelme55 (79324)
• Germany
10 Dec 22
Losing a child is the worst experience that ever happen to parents. . lovely photo.
2 people like this
@Beestring (15372)
• Hong Kong
10 Dec 22
I'm very sorry for your loss. I understand it must be difficult for you. Dustin will always live in your heart.
2 people like this