Joshua made me proud. He was such a caring boy and loving boy. Always giving to others in need. One example was when he was 4 he gave away his easter eggs to his little friends next door whose eggs had been eaten by ants. Joshua would never hesitate to give. He would buy me flowers with his pocket money, even if that meant he would miss out on buying his precious lollies.
Joshua had to grow up with a mother with depression. This was never a problem to him. He would open his arms and say "do you want one of these", or wipe away my tears when needed. Wise beyond his years and always mature in any situation.
He loved his Nana. He had great pride in telling her of all his escapades. I have never seen such a bond as I did with my son and his Nana. Because of my depression she became like a second mother to him. She misses him terribly. She is dying of bone cancer and that always upset Joshua. To think he was going to lose his best friend. But I know in my heart that Joshua is waiting in paradise to greet his Nana, with one of his big grins. Best friends forever.
Then there was Brad. His mentor. Years apart in age but best friends at heart. Thank you Brad for all your years of love and support you gave my son. I'm not sure which one enjoyed playing playstation more, or fixing that old skateboard. You were his hero.
Then along came his little brother Liam. Eight years apart. Oh how proud he was when his little brother came into this world. He let everyone know he was a big brother. I would sit back and watch my beautiful boys playing and feel so very proud and blessed to have such healthy happy children. He was always so gentle with him, even when playing tough games.
Well that was all taken away from me on Valentines Day 2000. Joshua went to a school camp that day and drowned while swimming in a waterhole. The light of my life gone. My best friend....my son. I miss you more than words Joshua. My arms are heavy and my broken heart aches for you. Your smile your eyes forever etched in my mind. I love you my friend. Rest in peace my little angel...Fly free.
