Beautiful Rio. My beautiful boy. It’s been a few months now. I see and hear you everywhere, even in my dreams. There is so much I wish I could say to you but sometimes it’s impossible to find the words. I find myself searching for answers as to why our time together was cut short, but you are the driving force that keeps us all going now. Life has inevitably and uncomfortably moved on, and as hard as that is to admit I know it’s what you would have wanted us all to do - TO CONTINUE LIVING - and as tough as that has been, we owe it to you to live life to the fullest. Nothing will ever replace you in the hearts of everyone that was lucky enough to know you. Thank you for being the most wonderful brother, friend, ally and a light in all of our lives. The process of grief isn’t linear and doesn’t always provide us with the answers we seek. How people choose to grieve is completely personal, and not everyone will understand your own journey; we are in an intense, constant battle and all we can do is our best, so please be patient and understanding of those experiencing this, and also how grief may present itself. It has been the most challenging, complicated and difficult process to navigate. The guilt that comes from wanting to express happiness in day to day life for the amazing moments that have happened but also feeling like you can’t because of how it may be perceived weighs so heavily. It’s quite literally a day at a time and that’s okay. Give what you can and do your best to put one foot in front of the other. Step by step. I’m sending abundant love and strength to anyone experiencing grief and loss at this time, and I hope that we can give each other comfort during those moments of hardship. You are not alone. I will be posting resources for anyone experiencing grief in the comments below when I am able to. You are so so loved. 🕊🤍