Celebrating the Legacy

Who takes the child by the hand takes the mother by the heart. - Danish Proverb

In taking part of last weekend’s gathering to commemorate Stanley Park’s 125^th, I also released several polished pebbles and stones out into the world. 

I gave a very special one to the band, The Matinee, who had met Shayla years earlier on her 18^th birthday, while they were performing at a bungee jump charity event. After speaking with the lead singer, Matt, I was confident they will find a grand spot to release the pebble I gave them. 

Strolling past the flourishing road gardens, I was drawn into the forests to a bench, near a graceful stream. It was a peaceful area, offering shade and relief from the bustling crowds. As I sat on a memorial bench, I turned to read who it was dedicated to. Even before I lost my daughter, I always paid respect to whoever the bench was named after.

Sitting in the quietness of the woods, I closed my eyes and let the rays of daylight peeking through the sprawling trees, comfort me. Then I released another small pebble. I always cherish the ripples of every pebble, gemstone and rock I send out into the world. Capturing the very moment of its release is something I anticipate with fulfilment. 

 Within a few minutes, I followed the trickling water below to find a beautiful passage on a memorial to those who passed away in the war. After a few moments of silence, I gathered myself and dropped a tiny white stone…the ripples ever so slight. 

 On my way back, I discovered a magnificent cascading pond area. Standing with her mother, was a little girl, around the age of three who was fascinated with the water. In a moment of spontaneity, I asked her mother-Carrie, if I could give her daughter, Brielle the pebble in my hand to toss. I told her what it was for and Carrie liked the idea. I was fortunate to snap a picture before Brielle eagerly threw it into the pond. It was the first time I had felt at ease with giving a pebble to another child. The joy this mother and daughter brought me is something I hold dear. 

People have asked me how many I have let go in Shayla’s memory and to be honest, I have lost count. That is why I try to photograph every one, in hopes I can keep track. Yet, I do not feel that is what I should be focussed on. For me- it is about seizing the moment- letting the pebble decide where it should be placed. Just as my daughter was a care free spirit in this world, I know in my heart as her mother, that she continues to live on in many ways…in many places…in the ripples that carry on her brilliant legacy.

By T.L. Alton