A celestial image depicting a nebula with swirling clouds of blue and orange against a dark backdrop, representing the vastness and beauty of the universe, evoking themes of loss and remembrance, My Forever Son, "Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky": Poem on Child Loss
An ethereal cosmic scene capturing rays of light and swirling clouds, evoking themes of loss and remembrance, My Forever Son, “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”: Poem on Child Loss

“Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”: A Poem on Losing a Child to Suicide

Key Takeaways

  • The poem “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” addresses the heart-wrenching experience of losing a child to suicide. The first line of the poem, “My Child Sleeps in a Cradle of Stars,” is beautiful and profound, evoking vivid imagery of a celestial embrace that suggests the child has been cradled by the universe itself, creating a sense of peace amidst sorrow.
  • It offers a narrative of grief, love, and resilience, providing support for those affected by similar tragedies.
  • The author, Beth Brown, shares her personal journey and creates poems about grief and healing.
  • Imagery from the author’s gardens enhances the poem’s emotional depth, capturing the complexity of loss.
  • Related resources, including the author’s book ‘Bury My Heart: 19 Poems for Grief and Healing After Losing a Child to Suicide,’ encourage reader engagement.

Summary

The poem “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”: A Poem on Losing a Child to Suicide is a heartfelt piece on losing a child to suicide that explores the profound grief and longing experienced after such a tragic loss. The author, Beth Brown, shares her personal journey of navigating grief and finding healing through poetry and gardening. The poem, along with related resources and the author’s book, aims to provide solace and support to those affected by similar tragedies.

Here is an excerpt from the poem, “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”:

Hubble Sees the Force Awakening in a Newborn Star
Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky 
(excerpt from full poem that appears below)

My child sleeps in a cradle of stars
Gently rocked by the moon
Lullabies in his heart,
Heavens in galaxies swirl round to the sound
Of a mother and child's love beating on.

Meteor showers on the darkest of nights
Bring comfort and joy to my child's delight,
Aurora Borealis tints sky blue and green
Where my child remembers his mother in dreams.

©Beth Brown, 2025, "Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky"

Introduction

“Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”: A Poem on Losing a Child to Suicide by author Beth Brown, shares a heart-wrenching exploration of the devastating experience of losing a child to suicide. Through poignant personal narratives and valuable resources for support, it reflects the profound sorrow and enduring love that those who remain often carry within their hearts.

Conveying a sense of profound loss and longing, the poem “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” offers solace to those who have experienced similar tragedy. The first line of the poem, “My Child Sleeps in a Cradle of Stars,” is beautiful and profound, evoking vivid imagery of a celestial embrace that suggests the child has been cradled by the universe itself, creating a sense of peace amidst sorrow.

Each subsequent stanza unfolds layers of grief intertwined with memories, allowing readers to navigate their own pain while finding comfort in the shared experience of loss. As the verses unfold, they resonate with gentle tenderness, weaving together themes of love and remembrance that linger long after the final lines, reminding us that while absence is felt deeply, the light of cherished moments continues to shine, guiding us through our darkest days.

The inclusion of related content and the author’s book, Bury My Heart: 19 Poems for Grief and Healing After Losing a Child to Suicide, enhances reader engagement.

The imagery, photographs from the author’s gardens, adds depth to the emotional impact of the poem. The post effectively captures the essence of the author’s work and provides a poignant insight into the themes of grief, love, and resilience.


My Forever Son

Hubble Sees the Force Awakening in a Newborn Star

My Forever Son explores the profound grief, hope, and healing that follow the tragedy of losing a child to suicide.

My Forever Son dovetails the author’s journey of descending into deep grief, searching for hope, and finding healing along the way.

Table of Contents


A Note From the Author

A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR, BETH BROWN: This poem, as well other poems from Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing, might seem at first glance to be about losing an infant or even having a miscarriage. This theme of losing an infant, including a baby born too soon, is meant to emphasize the devastating loss of a child to suicide.

My son Dylan was 20-years-old when he took his life, yet as my child, he belongs to me through all his 20 years. Dylan was born a month too early. As a high-risk pregnancy, I devoted a great deal of down time to carrying my baby to the eighth month.

In this poem, “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky,” my son is as much a part of me now as he always was. Carrying life and carrying death, then, becomes the tragic consequence for a parent when a child of any age dies by suicide.

Carrying life and carrying death, then, becomes the tragic consequence for a parent when a child of any age dies by suicide.

A colorful cosmic scene filled with numerous bright stars and nebulae, creating a vibrant depiction of the universe, evoking themes of loss and remembrance,, My Forever Son, My Forever Son, "Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky": A Poem on Losing a Child to Suicide
A beautiful cosmic representation of stars in a vast galaxy, evoking themes of loss and remembrance, My Forever Son, “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”: A Poem on Losing a Child to Suicide

Poem: “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”

Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky

My child sleeps in a cradle of stars
Gently rocked by the moon
Lullabies in his heart,
Heavens in galaxies swirl round to the sound
Of a mother and child's love beating on.

Meteor showers on the darkest of nights
Bring comfort and joy to my child's delight,
Aurora Borealis tints sky blue and green
Where my child remembers his mother in dreams.

Starlight for a mobile twinkling 'ere so bright
To remember his mother that darkest of nights,
When slipped he from her grasp and fell through this earth
Tumbling still planets, sun, folding time in rebirth.

He awakens to morning's expanse of sunrise
Casting warmth and love as he opens his eyes,
He hears in the distance his mother cry out:
"Oh my son, if I’d only known

I’d have reached right in to your dark night’s soul--
I would have held on, I would have clutched you,
I would have never let you go
But you told me “Mom I love you”
Oh my child, if I’d only known."

But boughs break and love falls through the cracks in the earth,
And the centre can't hold when orbits slung far break their girth,
Gravitational interference passing stars in the night
Jetting orbs, falling stars in a moonless sky.

©Beth Brown, 2025, "Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky"

Celestial Language Evokes Vivid Imagery in “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” Poem

“Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” is a poignant poem exploring the profound grief, longing, and heartbreak of a parent losing their child to suicide, using celestial imagery of stars to represent the lost child, thus offering a connection to hope and remembrance amidst deep sorrow. The poem reflects the universal pain of sudden loss and the search for meaning and solace, often connecting with themes of faith and finding comfort in memory.

Key Themes & Imagery

  • Profound Grief: The poem captures the deep emptiness and longing felt by parents after such a tragic event.
  • Stars as a Symbol: Falling stars symbolize the child’s presence, a bright light lost in darkness, but also a source of remembrance and connection.
  • Moonless Sky: Represents the darkness, despair, and lack of guidance felt by the grieving parent.
  • Hope & Healing: Despite the heartbreak, the poem offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that even in immense pain, a path to healing and cherishing memory exists. 

What “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” Poem Represents

  • Deep Grief: The title itself evokes profound darkness and loss, symbolizing the sudden absence of a child’s light.
  • Shared Experience: The poem is part of a collection of poems on My Forever Son: Grief and Healing After Losing a Child to Suicide blog which serves as a platform for parents to find support after devastating loss, making the poem, “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky,” by author Beth Brown a voice for others experiencing similar devastating losses.
  • Hope & Connection: This deeply personal poem, “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky,” crafted by a mother who has endured the unimaginable loss of her only child to suicide, offers a heartfelt platform for healing. Through both this poem and her blog, My Forever Son: Grief and Healing After Losing a Child to Suicide, she reaches out to other grieving parents, reminding them that they are not alone in their sorrow and that shared experiences can help illuminate the path toward healing.
A vibrant night sky filled with countless stars, showcasing the Milky Way's galactic core and various celestial patterns, symbolizing hope and connection in moments of grief, My Forever Son, "Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky": A Poem on Losing a Child to Suicide
A stunning view of a starry night sky, capturing the beauty and vastness of the universe, symbolizing hope and connection in moments of grief, My Forever Son, “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”: A Poem on Losing a Child to Suicide

Frequently Asked Questions: “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”

What are some other visual interpretations of Beth Brown’s poem “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”?


In addition to celestial metaphors, Beth Brown uses several other recurring visual themes to interpret the grief and healing explored in “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” and her broader work:
Garden and Nature Photography: On her blog, My Forever Son, Brown pairs her poems with stunning photography of her own gardens. She views the resilience of nature—such as the vibrant blooms of spring following the dormancy of winter—as a visual metaphor for the slow journey from trauma to healing.
The Magnolia Tree: This specific tree serves as a central visual emblem for her son, Dylan. It symbolizes enduring love, strength, and perseverance in the face of loss.
Shipwreck Imagery: In related poems like “Beat Still My Heart,” she uses visual metaphors of a shipwreck to convey the overwhelming, destructive nature of grief following a child’s suicide.
A “Cradle of Stars”: The poem’s opening line, “My Child Sleeps in a Cradle of Stars,” evokes a profound visual of a celestial embrace, suggesting the child is peacefully held by the universe itself.
The Family Table: In her narrative reflections, a family table often appears as a “sacred space,” visually representing the thread of generations and the physical void left by a missing loved one during family gatherings.

A Grandmother’s Love Held Together the Family Table is a heartwarming story about a family’s enduring love, symbolized by a family table. The table, originally purchased by the grandmother, becomes a sacred space where the family gathers, sharing laughter, joy, and celebrations. The narrative explores the profound grief of losing a child to suicide, highlighting how the family table becomes a site of reflection and remembrance.

Originally purchased by the grandmother, the table seemingly has a life of its own, resilient and flush with memories of love and laughter, grief and tears. Throughout the years, the grandmother holds both the family table and the family itself together, even in the wake of the catastrophic tragedy of losing a child to suicide. Hope and healing comes in the most unexpected ways.

The Profound Grief of Losing a Child to Suicide: An Empty Chair at the Family Table

Against this backdrop of cherished memories, the author reveals the profound grief of losing a child, her son Dylan, to suicide, a heart-wrenching experience that shatters the very foundation of her existence. As she navigates the complex emotions of despair, longing, and ultimately, acceptance, the narrative delves deeper into how the family table, once a symbol of happiness, becomes a site of reflection and remembrance.

A Grandmother’s Love Held Together the Family Table

What is the poem “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” about?


Beth Brown’s poem “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” uses celestial and natural imagery to articulate the devastating experience of losing her 20-year-old son, Dylan, to suicide. 

Key Visual Interpretations & Themes
Celestial Sanctuary: The poem opens with the line, “My Child Sleeps in a Cradle of Stars,” visually framing the lost child as being held in a peaceful, universal embrace.
Contrasting Light and Dark:Falling Stars: Represent the child’s life—a bright, sudden light that has vanished but remains a permanent point of reference.
Moonless Sky: A visual metaphor for the absolute darkness, lack of direction, and deep despair a parent faces after such a loss.

Related Poetic Works
These themes are further explored in her book, Bury My Heart: 19 Poems for Grief and Healing After Losing a Child to Suicide, and on her blog, My Forever Son

“Once Upon a Blue-Sky Moon”: A Heartfelt Poem About Losing My Son to Suicide captures the deep sorrow and profound emotions that come with the unimaginable loss of a child to suicide. Through the author’s heartfelt personal experience, the poem resonates with a sense of shared grief, offering solace to those who have faced similar heart-wrenching journeys.

“Once Upon a Blue-Sky Moon,” a poem of grief and regret about losing a child to suicide, evokes a deep sense of loss and shadows that linger in the heart. The heartfelt repetition of “If I had only known,” beautifully captures the profound regret and longing for clarity that resonates deeply within us all. The poem beautifully concludes with a tender image of being reunited, evoking the profound joy of soaring together once more.


“Once Upon a Blue-Sky Moon”: A Heartfelt Poem About Losing My Son to Suicide
Full Moon framed by trees, My Forever Son, Once Upon a Blue-Sky Moon

What are the Key Meanings and Themes of Beth Brown’s poetry, including this poem “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”?


“Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” is a poignant poem and a central theme in the work of author Beth Brown, who writes primarily about grief, healing, and the loss of a child. 

Key Meanings and Themes
A Mother’s Grief: The poem explicitly addresses the heart-wrenching experience of losing a child to suicide. It appears in her collection Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing.
Symbolism of Stars: In Brown’s work, falling stars symbolize the presence of a lost child—a “bright light” that has vanished from the physical world but remains a source of connection and remembrance.
The Moonless Sky: This represents the profound darkness, despair, and lack of guidance felt by a grieving parent after such a sudden loss.
Cradle of Stars: The poem’s imagery often describes the child “sleeping in a cradle of stars,” suggesting they are being held by the universe in a state of peace. 

Author and Resources
Beth Brown shares her personal journey of losing her son, Dylan, through the My Forever Son blog, where she uses poetry and nature photography to help other grieving parents find a path toward healing. 

Related works by Beth Brown:
“If Only a Mother’s Love”: Another original poem that uses similar celestial metaphors to reflect on the ongoing rhythm of grief.
“Bury My Heart”: A collection of 19 poems specifically for those navigating life after losing a child to suicide. 

Finding Beauty in Loss: Reflections on Grief and Healing shares author’s Beth Brown deeply personal journey of grief and healing after losing her son, Dylan, to suicide. This heart-wrenching experience of suicide loss is one that many can relate to, yet Beth captures it with profound sensitivity and depth. Through the delicate art of poetry and the serene beauty of nature photography, she finds solace and a creative outlet to express her overwhelming emotions during such a turbulent time.

Her work serves as a reminder that, even in the darkest moments, it is possible to find beauty and connection. “Find Hope Here” is more than just a collection of poems; it is an invitation to reflect on the journey of grief, acknowledge the pain, and ultimately, celebrate the love that continues to endure beyond loss. 

Finding Beauty in Loss: Reflections on Grief and Healing

What other imagery is in the poem?


In addition to the central celestial metaphors, “
Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky” by Beth Brown uses imagery related to nature, physical sensation, and domestic symbols to explore grief: 
A “Cradle of Stars”: The opening line, “My Child Sleeps in a Cradle of Stars,” creates a surreal, celestial image of the universe acting as a protective, peaceful guardian for the lost child.
Physical Sound of Grief: Brown describes the internal experience of loss with auditory imagery, referring to “screaming sounds I did not recognize as my own,” highlighting the raw, alien nature of acute trauma.
The Garden and Seasons:Spring Blooms: Imagery of crocuses, daffodils, and bluebells pushing through thawing ground symbolizes the slow, painful emergence of hope amidst the “winter” of grief.
The Magnolia Tree: A recurring symbol in her broader work (and associated with this poem) that represents both the purity of the child’s memory and the resilience required to survive.
Carrying Life and Death: The poet uses the sensory metaphor of “carrying” both life and death simultaneously, a reference to her experience of a high-risk pregnancy followed years later by the loss of her son.
The Family Table: In related reflections, the imagery of a “sacred” family table represents the empty space left behind and the site where survivors gather to remember. 

“I Will Seek Until I Find You” Poem: A Journey Through Grief evokes profound emotions and explores the deeply personal and heart-wrenching journey of losing a child to suicide through heartfelt poetry. This poignant piece delves into the complexities of grief and the lingering sense of longing that accompanies such a tragic loss. Through vivid imagery and carefully chosen language, the poem successfully communicates the multifaceted nature of grief—reflecting not just sorrow but also an enduring love that persists despite the overwhelming pain of absence.

“I Will Seek Until I Find You” Poem: A Journey Through Grief


Pink flowers trail over a cream and brown stoneware flower pot resting on bricks, symbolizing hope and resilience, My Forever Son, A Poetic Quest for Healing After Losing My Son
Pink flowers trail over a cream and brown stoneware flower pot resting on bricks, symbolizing hope and resilience, My Forever Son, A Poetic Quest for Healing After Losing My Son

Author’s Note: A Poetic Quest for Healing After Losing My Son

Twelve years ago, I lost my 20-year-old son, Dylan, to suicide, a heartbreaking event that shattered my world and plunged me into a dark period of grief.

During those long months, I found myself grappling with overwhelming emotions and thoughts, questioning everything around me and struggling to make sense of what will never make sense. I entered into a deep grief filled with solitude and despair, a darkness so bleak I questioned ever being able to see light again.

In the beginning, I had no words. No voice. No ability to express the grief I was feeling.

My words were lost in torrents of tears, in stark contrast to the vibrant discussions I used to lead in my college composition and literature classes.

Perhaps it’s important to preface that I was teaching college composition and literature when I lost my son to suicide, a tragedy that shattered all of me. The irony of discussing the complexities of human emotion with my students while grappling with my own profound sorrow was not lost on me.

Each day, I faced the challenge of maintaining my professional facade, all the while battling an internal tempest that seemed insurmountable, wondering how to bridge the chasm between my role as an educator and the personal devastation I was enduring.

Wild purple geraniums surrounded by green leaves near a water pond  in mid-summer, symbolizing hope and a moment of tranquility, My Forever Son, A Poetic Quest for Healing After Losing My Son
Wild purple geraniums surrounded by green leaves in mid-summer, symbolizing hope and a moment of tranquility, My Forever Son, A Poetic Quest for Healing After Losing My Son

My Life Before Losing My Son

Books, lectures, teaching—I once felt empowered by my voice, a resonant tool for sharing ideas and knowledge. It was a time when I believed in the strength of my words and the influence they carried, inspiring others to think deeply and engage in meaningful conversations.

I reveled in the connections I forged through sharing my thoughts, feeling a sense of purpose in my contributions to the world. But when Dylan died by suicide, I felt consumed by my grief. My heart collapsed inward in sharp pain, I retreated from the outside world, and my words eluded me.

Teaching was impossible. Losing Dylan shattered my life, leaving me, on the outside at least, grappling with an overwhelming silence that echoed louder than any lecture or written page.

On the inside, I was screaming sounds I did not recognize as my own.

The Depth of My Loss Brought My Life to a Standstill

The vibrant energy that once fueled my passion for writing vanquished, and I found myself questioning everything without being able to lend voice to the confusion and overwhelming feelings I was moving through in my grief.

The depth of my loss silenced the joy I once derived from sharing my thoughts and connecting with others.

All of my life came to a standstill as I entered a place of deep grief. It is only in retrospect and in these twelve years past my son’s suicide that I see how all-consuming my grief was.

Diminishing the confidence that fuels expression, my grief stifled my voice completely. It’s been a difficult battle to reclaim my sense of self amidst such sorrow.

A Poetic Quest for Self-Forgiveness and Healing

Journaling was awkward. I couldn’t put all the pain I was feeling into words that did justice to the enormity of my heartbreak. But I kept writing. Slowly, in keeping a record of my grief, I realized I was creating a poetic journey about losing a child to suicide.

A close-up of a vibrant red rose surrounded by green leaves, set against a textured gray wall, symbolizing hope and renewal, My Forever Son, Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing
A vibrant red rose blooms amidst lush green leaves, symbolizing hope and renewal in the journey of healing, My Forever Son, Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing

“Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing”

Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing is a heartfelt collection of poems and reflections by Beth Brown, the compassionate voice behind the My Forever Son blog. This poignant work navigates the deep, overwhelming sorrow that accompanies the tragic loss of a child to suicide. In her writing, Brown bravely shares her personal journey through grief, revealing how the act of writing poetry and connecting with the beauty of nature became vital sources of comfort and healing for her in the midst of such profound pain.

Through the author’s heartfelt verses, she reaches out with warmth and understanding to those who are journeying through their own sorrows. With her enchanting photography of the trees, shrubs, and flowers that grace her gardens throughout the seasons, Brown lovingly shares a beacon of hope, brightly illuminating the shadows cast by grief.

On Finding Hope: Photographing My Gardens Brings Healing

In nature, I find calm in the wake of profound sorrow and healing in the cycling of the seasons. Predictable. Beautiful in the spring, promising renewal after a long winter’s rest. Brilliant hues in the summer months. Autumn bringing trees and shrubs bejeweled in vivid reds, oranges, and reds. And then the stillness and monochromatic sketch of what can be a too long winter’s sleep.

Winter Wonderland: Captivating Photos in My Gardens

A Long Winter’s Rest for Trees, Shrubs, and Flowers

This dormant season in winter echoes the hopelessness of my grief: everything feels, looks, seems bleak and forsaken.

This dormant season in winter echoes the hopelessness of my grief: everything feels, looks, seems bleak and forsaken. An empty landscape. Gray skies for months. A blanket of snow in white, though only the stark limbs of trees and shrubs. At times, though, red berries appear on some shrubs, supplying food for birds and wildlife. All this to say I can’t see life against this wintry scene.

But in photographing nature through the seasons, I began to see (again), the brilliance of a long winter’s rest for trees, shrubs, and flowers. To study nature and botany is to realize that what appears lifeless is actually the process of life within all of nature renewing itself. Trusting in what I cannot see brings hope and healing.

Spring Brings Hope: Photographs of My Gardens

Spring Brings Beauty and Hope

Even against the cold remnants of a long winter–scattered clumps of snow, a robin redbreast plumped out to keep itself warm against a late March frost, brown dried leaves with nary a sign of color anywhere, spring breaks through. At first just small bits of color. A hint of purple as crocus push through thawing ground, then the vivid yellows of daffodils leaning towards the sun and the suddenness of blue bells. Rhododendron yawns and stretches its lavender limbs to awaken azalea, still sleepy with snow though greening beneath it all.

What seems forever gone in the gray doldrums of winter arrives with an abundance of joy come spring.


Writing My Way Through Grief to Find Hope and Healing

Snippets of language emerged as poetic reflections

Three years into my grief, I began writing journal entries. Short. A few feelings. About my day and where I was in my grief journey. Then slowly, snippets of language emerged as poetic reflections. Words shaped the deep feelings and emotional longing in my heart, and as I continued writing, I began to find small glimpses of hope in unexpected ways.

Photographing my gardens garnered a way to coalesce all the many feelings and words I’d been unable to express. And the more I photographed through the seasons, the more glimmers of hope I found along the way.

Each poignant poem in Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing is a dedicated blog post in its own right, replete with the inspiration behind the poem.

The poems included in Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing appear below. Each poem is a blog post in its own right, oftentimes replete with the inspiration behind the poem.

Each poem moves the reader through the profound emotions of grief and healing after losing a child.

Many of the poems tell narratives I remember from my son’s childhood. This is significant–reconstructing the narrative of our lives during his growing-up years brings release for all the love and beautiful memories before the trauma of losing him. Writing these poems and narratives, these poetic reflections on love and loss, have helped me learn to carry love and ache together.

Still I write. Still I heal. Still I miss my son.


From Shattered Hearts to Quiet Hope: Poems and Reflections for Parents of Suicide Loss

Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing

If you are reading this, you know the unique and overwhelming grief of losing a child to suicide. This collection is for you—a place to find words and images that honor your pain, offer comfort, and gently invite hope.

Curated by Beth Brown, who lost her only child, her 20-year-old son Dylan, to suicide, these poems and reflections move through the rawness of early trauma, the depths of acute grief, and the slow journey toward healing, even thirteen years later. Each post pairs heartfelt writing with stunning garden photography, inspired by Beth’s own search for solace in nature’s resilience.

Hope can be quiet—listen for it in moments of rest.

You are invited to explore at your own pace. Choose what resonates—whether it’s a poem that mirrors your sorrow, a reflection that offers comfort, or an image that whispers hope. For more resources, stories, and support, visit the My Forever Son blog and discover a community that understands.

Contemplation Prompt:
Pause with a garden image. What does it say to you about survival, growth, or hope?

About the Author, Beth Brown: Writing My Way Through Grief

The love you shared endures beyond loss.

This collection is lovingly curated by Beth Brown, a mother who lost her only child, her 20-year-old son Dylan, to suicide. Over thirteen years, Beth’s journey through the depths of grief has been shaped by poetry, reflection, and the healing presence of her gardens. Through My Forever Son, she shares how nature’s resilience and beauty offer moments of solace and hope, even in the face of unimaginable loss.

Explore These Poems and Reflections at Your Own Pace

You are invited to explore these poems and reflections at your own pace. Each post pairs heartfelt words with stunning garden photography, offering comfort, understanding, and gentle encouragement for wherever you are in your grief. Select what speaks to you—let these pages be a companion on your path toward healing. For more resources, stories, and support, visit the My Forever Son blog and discover a community that understands.

Journaling Prompt:
What memories of your child bring both tears and warmth? Write a few lines, letting your heart speak freely.

You are not alone. Healing is a journey, and hope can bloom—even here.

Message of Hope:
Even in the darkest seasons, a single flower can remind us that beauty and life persist. Let these poems be gentle companions as you move through your grief.

FIND HOPE HERE: POEMS AND POETIC REFLECTIONS ON GRIEF AND HEALING

Understanding ‘Once Upon a Blue-Sky Moon’ Poem’s Heartfelt Message

Understanding ‘Once Upon a Blue-Sky Moon’ Poem’s Heartfelt Message Summary Understanding ‘Once Upon a Blue-Sky Moon’ Poem’s Heartfelt Message explores the profound grief and regret of losing a child to suicide through the poem, “Once Upon a Blue-Sky Moon,” by author Beth Brown. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt repetition, the poem captures the enduring love…

Read More

When Love Isn’t Enough: ‘Ode to Suicide: That We Might Understand’

When Love Isn’t Enough: ‘Ode to Suicide: That We Might Understand’ Summary When Love Isn’t Enough: ‘Ode to Suicide: That We Might Understand’ unravels the profound complexities surrounding suicide, featuring an impactful poem and a heartfelt treatise by the author, “Ode to Suicide: That We Might Understand.” This poignant article and poetic reflection encourage readers…

Read More

The Magnolia Tree: A Symbol of Grief and Resilience

The Magnolia Tree: A Symbol of Grief and Resilience Summary The Magnolia Tree: A Symbol of Grief and Resilience explores the author’s journey of grief through the metaphor of a Magnolia tree’s cyclical seasons. The author uses photography to illustrate the parallels between nature’s cycles and the seasons of grief, finding hope and healing in…

Read More

Finding Beauty in Loss: Reflections on Grief and Healing

Finding Beauty in Loss: Reflections on Grief and Healing Key Takeaways Summary Finding Beauty in Loss: Reflections on Grief and Healing shares author Beth Brown’s journey of grief and healing after losing her son, Dylan, to suicide. Through poetry and nature photography, she finds solace and a way to express her overwhelming emotions after suicide loss.…

Read More

“Travel On My Brave Soldier”: A Poem of Hope

“Travel On My Brave Soldier”: A Poem of Hope Summary “Travel On My Brave Soldier”: A Poem of Hope addresses grieving parents who have suffered the unimaginable loss of a child to suicide. It underscores the profound importance of honoring their child’s memory through meaningful rituals, sharing heartfelt stories, and engaging in advocacy events that…

Read More

Embracing Grief: A Mother’s Poetic Journey

From journaling to discovering the poetic language that encapsulates my grief, I penned my path to healing, culminating in the creation of my book, Bury My Heart: 19 Poems for Grief and Healing After Losing a Child to Suicide.

The anthology of poems in this book provides a profound and moving examination of grief, intricately intertwining original verses that delve into themes of loss, guilt, hope, self-forgiveness, and the path to healing. Expertly curated, the arrangement of poems invites deep reflection, serving as a treasured companion for those in search of solace and connection during difficult times.

Close-up of pink azalea flowers blooming, surrounded by green foliage, My Forever Son,
Delicate pink azalea flowers bloom, symbolizing love and resilience in the face of loss, My Forever Son, “If Only a Mother’s Love Could Have Saved You”: A Poem about Loss

The Poem: “If Only a Mother’s Love Could Have Saved You”

Audio for the Poem, “If Only a Mother’s Love Could Have Saved You”

“If Only a Mother’s Love Could Have Saved You”: A Poem about Loss, Beth Brown, My Forever Son
If Only a Mother’s Love Could Have Saved You

If only a mother’s love could have saved you,
Could have heard in the dark your heart’s cry,
She could have saved you yet both together,
Falling stars in a moonless sky.

Bones bear girth where once,
Wisdom birthed you.
Love shaped curves
That held me (and you)—too.

If only a mother's love could have saved you,
Been there to catch your heart’s fall,
She could have stopped tears spilled by the heavens
To where now and forever, you forever now reside.

Your descent of life hers, labored love borne,
On wings beating too wildly and too soon your own.
Your beat of heart hers now her own to live on,
Sick pulse of ache holding death in her arms.

Oh my heart and oh my son,
Without you life empties yet love forever beats on.
And so now, my forever, “Why?” replete in my soul,
Which has always—and still, child—
Moved in grooves you made whole.

If only a mother’s love could have saved you,
Could have heard in the dark your heart’s cry,
She could have saved you yet both together,
Falling stars in a moonless sky.

©Beth Brown, 2021
Find Hope Here: Poems About Losing a Child to Suicide

Heartfelt Stories of Love, Loss, and Remembrance

Explore heartfelt narratives and reflections on the profound strength of love, the agony of loss, and the enduring essence of remembering those we cherished and lost. In these stories, delve into the intricate tapestry of emotions that love weaves, showcasing not only the joyous moments but also the poignant struggles that arise in times of sorrow.

A close-up of a young woman with long hair, gazing down thoughtfully, with gentle shadows highlighting her face., symbolizing the journey of grief and remembrance, The Backstory to My Forever Son: A Mother's Grief, My Forever Son
A woman reflecting on her emotions, symbolizing the journey of grief and remembrance, The Backstory to My Forever Son: A Mother’s Grief, My Forever Son

The Backstory to My Forever Son: A Mother’s Grief

The Backstory to My Forever Son: A Mother’s Grief recounts the author’s experience of losing her son to suicide, highlighting her grief, guilt, and the healing power of writing. The blog “My Forever Son” emerged as a way for her to navigate this devastating loss, serving as a platform for sharing experiences and finding solace in community. My Forever Son: Healing After Losing a Child to Suicide is a heartfelt blog by Beth Brown that chronicles her profound journey through grief and healing following the suicide of her son, Dylan, using poetry, reflections, and nature photography.

Overview of My Forever Son Blog

Beth Brown’s blog, My Forever Son: Healing After Losing My Son to Suicide, is an intimate account of her life after losing her 20-year-old son, Dylan, to suicide. The blog captures her harrowing experience of grief, the guilt and despair she faced, and the ways she has sought healing over the years. Through writing, particularly poetry, she expresses emotions that had been otherwise inexpressible during the early, overwhelming stages of her mourning 

Content and Themes

  • Poems as Reflection and Healing: The blog features a series of poems, including Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing which explore the depth of sorrow, longing, and hope experienced after losing a child. These poems often intertwine personal narratives and memories, offering readers insight into the emotional journey of a bereaved parent.
  • Personal Journey: Beth shares the timeline of her grief, describing the initial devastation, the silencing of her voice, and her struggle to find hope. Writing began as a journal, eventually transforming into a poetic endeavor that allowed her to process sorrow while reconnecting with her creative and expressive self.
  • Photography and Nature as Healing: The blog incorporates photographs of Beth’s gardens across seasons, showing how observing the cycles of nature helped her find moments of calm, renewal, and hope amid grief. Spring blooms and gradual seasonal changes symbolize resilience and the eventual emergence of joy following loss 
  • Community and Support: The blog also emphasizes the importance of connecting with others who have experienced similar loss, highlighting that shared grief can reduce the sense of isolation that often accompanies bereavement 

Purpose and Impact

The aim of My Forever Son is to offer solace and understanding to parents confronting child loss, providing a space for reflection and healing. Through her poetry, Beth Brown shows that grief can endure, yet moments of hope and remembrance are possible. Her work is part of Find Hope Here: Poetic Reflections on Grief and Healing including 19 poems on love, loss, and recovery, sharing her son’s life and her reflections on carrying grief with cherished memories.

A Magnolia tree with golden leaves stands against a backdrop of a sunny sky and a brick wall, symbolizing resilience and the cyclical nature of grief, My Forever Son, The Magnolia Tree: A Symbol of Grief and Resilience
A Magnolia tree showcasing vibrant yellow leaves, symbolizing resilience and the cyclical nature of grief, My Forever Son, The Magnolia Tree: A Symbol of Grief and Resilience

The Magnolia Tree: A Symbol of Grief and Resilience

The Magnolia Tree: A Symbol of Grief and Resilience is a heartfelt exploration of the author’s journey through grief after losing her son to suicide. It draws parallels between the cycles of nature and the seasons of healing, illustrated by the vibrant blooms of spring and the dormancy of winter. The magnolia tree symbolizes both grief and resilience, representing enduring love and remembrance of “My Forever Son.” With its association of strength, dignity, and perseverance, the magnolia serves as a fitting emblem for perseverance in the face of loss. Its blooms evoke purity and beauty, creating a gentle tribute to a loved one.

In mourning a child, the magnolia embodies the pain of loss and the hope of healing. Planting one acts as a living memorial, where love grows alongside the tree, and its blooms symbolize the endurance of the heart. Magnolia trees signify the continuity of life, offering comfort during grief, and many families choose them for gardens, finding a representation of both sorrow and hope. The magnolia stands as a living tribute to grief and eternal memory.

A family gathering around a dining table, featuring a young girl serving a sausage dish, with adults smiling and enjoying the meal together. ymbolizing connection and tradition, My Forever Son, A Grandmother's Love Held Together the Family Table
A warm family gathering around the dinner table, sharing food and laughter, symbolizing connection and tradition, My Forever Son,“A Grandmother’s Love Held Together the Family Table

A Grandmother’s Love Held Together the Family Table

A grandmother’s enduring love is the invisible thread that binds generations, keeping the family together and filling hearts with warmth.

“A Grandmother’s Love Held Together the Family Table” is a heartwarming story about a family’s enduring love, symbolized by a family table. The table, originally purchased by the grandmother, becomes a sacred space where the family gathers, sharing laughter, joy, and celebrations. The narrative explores the profound grief of losing a child to suicide, highlighting how the family table becomes a site of reflection and remembrance.

A Grandmother’s Love Held Together the Family Table beautifully captures the essence of family connection. A grandmother serves as the cornerstone of family life, nurturing traditions and offering unconditional love. Her presence weaves comfort and wisdom into daily moments, inspiring kindness in children. A grandmother’s love acts as the glue that holds a family together, creating warmth and shared memories around the table.

A young man smiling while sitting on a porch, wearing a black t-shirt with a graphic design, against a wooden background, 
A vibrant young man smiling joyfully while sitting casually, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and warmth, Dylan: Forever Loved and Remembered, My Forever Son
A vibrant young man smiling joyfully while sitting casually, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and warmth, Twenty Years of Love: Dylan, My Forever Son

Twenty Years of Love: Dylan

“Twenty Years of Love: Dylan My Forever Son” is a heartfelt blog post that honors Dylan Andrew Brown, reflecting on his life, enduring love, and the profound grief of losing a child to suicide.

Twenty Years of Love: Dylan is a beautiful guest post by the author’s sister that looks back over the life of Dylan, reflecting on cherished memories, significant milestones, and the profound impact he had on the lives of those who loved him. The post invites readers to journey through the years alongside Dylan, celebrating his accomplishments, the lessons learned, and the indelible mark he left on the hearts of family and friends alike. It serves not only as a tribute but also as a heartfelt reminder of the power of love and remembrance, encouraging everyone to hold tight to their own memories of those who have touched their lives. Twenty Years of Love: Dylan, gone too soon. 

Key themes in this post include:

  • Enduring Love: A mother’s connection with her son continues even after death, showing that grief is interwoven with remembrance and devotion 
  • Grief and Healing: The blog is part of a broader effort to chronicle grief and share hope, offering support to others coping with the loss of a child 
  • Personal Tribute: Dylan is remembered as a gifted student, musician, friend, and beloved son, with his achievements and personality celebrated alongside the grief 

A close-up image of a golden cocker spaniel puppy with soft fur and expressive eyes, wearing a red collar with a decorative pattern, Cocker Spaniel Puppy, Grandparents' Double Grief: Losing a Grandchild to Suicide, My Forever Son
A cute golden puppy with soulful eyes, wearing a red collar, capturing the essence of innocence and joy, Cocker Spaniel Puppy, Grandparents’ Double Grief: Losing a Grandchild to Suicide, My Forever Son.

Grandparents’ Double Grief: Losing a Grandchild to Suicide

Grandparents’ Double Grief: Losing a Grandchild to Suicide explores the profound grief experienced by grandparents who endure the heartbreaking loss of a grandchild to the tragic circumstances of suicide, delving into the emotional turmoil, feelings of helplessness, and the complex process of mourning that accompanies such a devastating multiple loss. A grandparent grieves not just for their grandchild, but also for their own child whose life is forever changed.

The grief grandparents experience after losing a grandchild to suicide is profound and multifaceted, often described as a “double grief” because it involves mourning both the grandchild and the deep pain of their own child, the parent.

Unique Emotional Journey for Grandparents
Grandparents’ grief is often intense and complicated by feelings of helplessness knowing their own child is deeply suffering. They may experience shock, numbness, guilt, anger, and profound sadness, sometimes feeling invisible or “forgotten mourners” as attention tends to focus on the parents. This grief often lasts much longer than society expects and involves many emotional ups and downs. Grandparents may struggle to express their loss openly, yet their need to acknowledge and remember the grandchild remains strong.


A stack of self-help books related to grief and healing, next to a blue coffee mug, with green plants in the background, highlighting books focused on grief and support,
A collection of resources for families healing from the loss of a child, highlighting books focused on grief and support, “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”: A Poem on Losing a Child to Suicide, My Forever Son

Professional Resources

Online Directory for Coping with Grief, Trauma, and Distress

After A Suicide Resource Directory: Coping with Grief, Trauma, and Distress
http://www.personalgriefcoach.net
This online directory links people who are grieving after a suicide death to resources and information.

Alliance of Hope for Suicide Survivors
http://www.allianceofhope.org
This organization for survivors of suicide loss provides information sheets, a blog, and a community forum through which survivors can share with each other.

Friends for Survival
http://www.friendsforsurvival.org
This organization is for suicide loss survivors and professionals who work with them. It produces a monthly newsletter and runs the Suicide Loss Helpline (1-800-646-7322). It also published Pathways to Purpose and Hope, a guide to building a community-based suicide survivor support program.

HEARTBEAT: Grief Support Following Suicide
http://heartbeatsurvivorsaftersuicide.org
This organization has chapters providing support groups for survivors of suicide loss in Colorado and some other states. Its website provides information sheets for survivors and a leader’s guide on how to start a new chapter of HEARTBEAT.


Resources and Support Groups

Parents of Suicides and Friends & Families of Suicides (POS-FFOS)
http://www.pos-ffos.com
This website provides a public message board called Suicide Grief Support Forum, a listserv for parents, a separate listserv for others, and an online chat room for survivors of suicide loss.

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)
https://www.taps.org/suicide
This organization provides resources and programs for people grieving the loss of a loved one who died while serving in the U.S. armed forces or as a result of their service. It has special resources and programs for suicide loss survivors.

United Survivors
https://unitesurvivors.org/
This organization is a place where people who have experienced suicide loss, suicide attempts, and suicidal thoughts and feelings, and their friends and families, can connect to use their lived experience to advocate for policy, systems, and cultural change.

Professional Organizations

American Association of Suicidology
suicidology.org • (202) 237-2280
Promotes public awareness, education and training for professionals, and sponsors an annual Healing After Suicide conference for suicide loss survivors. In addition to the conference, they offer a coping with suicide grief handbook by Jeffrey Jackson. This booklet is also available in Spanish.

The Compassionate Friends
compassionatefriends.org • (877) 969-0010
Offers resources for families after the death of a child. They sponsor support groups, newsletters and online support groups throughout the country, as well as an annual national conference for bereaved families.

The Dougy Center
The National Center for Grieving Children & Families
dougy.org • (503) 775-5683
Publishes extensive resources for helping children and teens who are grieving a death including death by suicide. Resources include the “Children, Teens and Suicide Loss” booklet created in partnership with AFSP. This booklet is also available in Spanish.

Link’s National Resource Center for Suicide Prevention and Aftercare
thelink.org/nrc-for-suicide-prevention-aftercar • 404-256-2919
Dedicated to reaching out to those whose lives have been impacted by suicide and connecting them to available resources.

Tragedy Assistance Programs for Survivors (TAPS)
taps.org/suicide • (800) 959-TAPS (8277)
Provides comfort, care and resources to all those grieving the death of a military loved one through a national peer support network and connection to grief resources, all at no cost to surviving families and loved ones.

LOSS
losscs.org
Offers support groups, remembrance events, companioning, suicide postvention and prevention education, and training to other communities interested in developing or enhancing their suicide postvention and prevention efforts.

Online resources

Alliance of Hope
allianceofhope.org
Provides a 24/7 online forum for suicide loss survivors.

Help Guide
helpguide.org
Provides resources and tips for how to navigate the loss of someone to suicide.

Parents of Suicides (POS) – Friends and Families of Suicides (FFOS)
pos-ffos.com
An internet community to connect parents, friends, and family that have lost someone to suicide.

SAVE: Suicide Awareness Voices of Education
save.org/programs/suicide-loss-support • (952) 946-7998
Hosts resources for suicide loss survivor including a support group database, newsletter, survivor conference and the Named Memorial Program, which offers a special way to honor your loved one.

Siblings Survivors of Suicide Loss
siblingsurvivors.com
Provides resources and a platform to connect with others that have lost a sibling to suicide.

Finding professional care and support

Find a mental health provider

Find a provider for prolonged grief

Find additional resources for marginalized communities

Crisis Services

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
988lifeline.org
Call or text 988 (press 1 for Veterans, 2 for Spanish, 3 for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults) or chat 988lifeline.org
A 24-hour, toll-free suicide prevention service available to anyone in suicidal crisis. You will be routed to the closest possible crisis center in your area. With crisis centers across the country, their mission is to provide immediate assistance to anyone seeking mental health services. Call for yourself, or someone you care about. Your call is free and confidential.

Crisis Text Line
crisistextline.org
Text TALK to 741-741 for English
Text AYUDA to 741-741 for Spanish
Provides free, text-based mental health support and crisis intervention by empowering a community of trained volunteers to support people in their moments of need, 24/7.





RELATED READS: UNDERSTANDING SUICIDE

Understanding the Pain of Suicide Loss

Understanding the Pain of Suicide Loss: “When Someone is Too Bruised to Be Touched” Summary The article “Understanding the Pain of Suicide Loss: “When Someone is Too Bruised to Be Touched” explores the profound grief and struggles faced by those left behind after a loved one dies by suicide. It features Father Ronald Rolheiser’s insightful…

Read More

Understanding Prolonged Grief Disorder After Suicide

Understanding Prolonged Grief Disorder After Suicide Summary Understanding Prolonged Grief Disorder After Suicide provides a detailed description of and discussion of “Prolonged Grief Disorder,” “previously known as complicated grief, describes long-term mourning after loss, especially from suicide. Suicide grief is complicated by guilt, shame, and societal stigma, making it difficult to move through. While labeling…

Read More

Breaking the Stigma: Facts About Suicide and Compassion

Breaking the Stigma: Facts About Suicide and Compassion Summary Breaking the Stigma: Facts About Suicide and Compassion systematically dismantles the myths and misconceptions associated with suicide, promoting a comprehensive understanding anchored in empathy and care. It methodically examines the cultural, social, and economic factors that influence suicide rates, providing essential global statistics and expert insights…

Read More

Understanding the Unique Aspects of Suicide Grief

Understanding the Unique Aspects of Suicide Grief Summary Understanding the Unique Aspects of Suicide Grief explores the unique challenges of coping with suicide grief. The author, who lost her son to suicide, shares her personal experiences, her emotional journey, and provides resources for emotional support and understanding. The post includes a collection of articles and…

Read More

Understanding Suicide: It’s Not a Choice

Understanding Suicide: It’s Not a Choice Summary The article, Understanding Suicide: It’s Not a Choice, affirms with well-documented research that suicide is not a choice, but a tragic outcome of intense emotional pain and distorted judgment. The stigma surrounding suicide persists, hindering understanding and perpetuating the misconception that it is a selfish act. Suicide epidemiologists…

Read More

Understanding Suicide: Why the Pain Matters

Understanding Suicide: Why the Pain Matters Summary Understanding Suicide: Why the Pain Matters by author Beth Brown explores the pain and grief surrounding suicide, emphasizing that it is not a conscious choice but a desperate attempt to escape unbearable suffering. Her article highlights current research into understanding suicide and suicidal thinking, personal stories shared by…

Read More

Understanding Suicide: Grief and Healing Insights

Understanding Suicide: Grief and Healing Insights Summary Understanding Suicide: Grief and Healing Insights examines prevalent misconceptions about suicide, emphasizing the importance of compassionate understanding and forgiveness in the grieving process. Drawing on insights from Ronald Rolheiser, it clarifies that suicide is primarily the result of mental health challenges rather than personal failure, and reassures that…

Read More

When Love Isn’t Enough: ‘Ode to Suicide: That We Might Understand’

When Love Isn’t Enough: ‘Ode to Suicide: That We Might Understand’ Summary When Love Isn’t Enough: ‘Ode to Suicide: That We Might Understand’ unravels the profound complexities surrounding suicide, featuring an impactful poem and a heartfelt treatise by the author, “Ode to Suicide: That We Might Understand.” This poignant article and poetic reflection encourage readers…

Read More
red rose in full bloom close up

Get new Posts delivered to your inbox.

Home » Finding Beauty in Loss: Poetic Reflections » “Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”: Poem on Child Loss

Discover more from My Forever Son: Grief and Healing After Losing a Child to Suicide

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

By Beth Brown

Musician. Writer. Literary Connoisseur. Always writing, scribbling poetry, turning feelings into words. "Break my heart even further" can't ever be done, for I lost my heart the night I lost my son. Come find me writing at My Forever Son: Grief, Hope, and Healing After Losing My Son to Suicide.

At the whim of Most Beloved Cat, I write as she tattles on the garden cats. Find Most Beloved Cat sharing her stories at Gardens at Effingham: Where Cats Tell the Tales

3 replies on ““Falling Stars in a Moonless Sky”: Poem on Child Loss”

Comments are closed.

Discover more from My Forever Son: Grief and Healing After Losing a Child to Suicide

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading