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Karin Flodstrom's avatar

Oh Davina! I now remember reading that you are a bereaved mother. Your friendship with Madeleine who is also a bereaved mother is astonishing.

The way you describe raising the children you have together is touching and warm. The loss of two of the children you’ve raised together is devastating. The ruined lanterns capture the bleakness.

Sometimes there is no comfort except your words “This is the worst.” Maybe that’s true some days, but not others?

I wish no mother ever had to face this pain. I’m especially sad that you know this pain, my new friend.

Karin Flodstrom's avatar

Beautiful message. ❤️

Davina Robertson's avatar

Oh sweetheart - thank you - I actually love that you didn’t know at first. And yes - for many years now. My book is about Sam’s life and death and really is a message for everyone that it is everyone’s responsibility in every moment to communicate to those they encounter that they belong - exactly as they are.

Esther Stanway-Williams's avatar

I know this pain…my eldest son also took his life. I hope you find writing about this on Substack helps; it has been a way to truly process this loss for me. Sending love ❤️

Davina Robertson's avatar

Esther, I am so sorry that you lost your precious boy and thank you for readingmy post. If you ever want to connect please don't hesitate to DM. 💙

bee mayhew's avatar

As a Bethany (me! Bee for short to avoid the dread Beth) with a Madeline daughter I read this in shapeshifter mode. Feeling all y'all like the congealed cheese chalking up my mouth and drying out my lips in all the relatable and glorious truth of it 🙏🏻 stunning

Davina Robertson's avatar

Dear Bee, Thank you SO much for reading and for offering this feedback. It means a lot. Isn’t it strange (and doesn’t often happen to me) when we share a name with someone in a story? Adds another dimension to everything. I am so happy to be here with lovely readers and writers all around me. Bless you. 🙏🏼

📚Carolyn Parker's avatar

A tough read but beautifully written. I was with you and your friend as you held her and as you remembered the start of your own journey of loss.

Davina Robertson's avatar

Hey thank you so much Carolyn. It really does mean a lot to have this feedback from you a published author and talented story teller.

📚Carolyn Parker's avatar

Bless you my friend ✨👍