Mia, a seven-year-old girl with curly brown hair, sits clutching her favorite stuffed bear. Her eyes are puffy from crying, and her parents linger at the doorway, unsure how to comfort her.
Mom kneels beside her, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder.
"Mia, I know your heart hurts so much right now. It's okay to cry, and it's okay to miss your brother,"
Dad pours two cups of tea, one for himself and a warm milk for Mia, who gazes thoughtfully at the steam curling above her cup.
"Will I ever stop feeling sad, Daddy?"
"Sadness is part of love, Mia. When someone we love is gone, our hearts need time to heal. You can talk to us whenever you feel upset, and sometimes, sharing memories helps,"
"Remember when you and your brother built that sandcastle at the beach? You both laughed so much when the waves washed it away,"
"I miss him. But I like remembering the funny things we did,"
"It's good to remember. Sharing stories keeps him close in your heart,"
"Drawing, writing, or even talking to someone can help you feel better. Some children write letters to their loved ones, or plant a flower in their memory,"
"Can I write him a letter? Maybe he'll hear me in the stars,"
Ms. Carter, the counselor, smiles warmly and offers Mia a soft toy to hold.
"It's okay to feel sad and to talk about your feelings. Sometimes drawing, listening to music, or hugging your favorite bear can help. You are never alone, and there are lots of people who want to help you feel better,"
"Thank you, Ms. Carter. I think I'll draw more pictures and talk to my friends,"
"Goodnight, little star. I love you and I'll keep you with me, always,"
The room glows with a gentle warmth, and Mia feels a small comfort knowing her love reaches far beyond the sky.
















