Letter from Home

Written by Carol Hoke for the services of 2-year-old Kelynn, who died at the hand of his abuser. Dedicated to all children who are victims of physical abuse.

8/07

I wanted to send this letter to you

As I see you have all gathered round,

To share your hearts, tears, and memories of him,

But perhaps laughter and joy can be found.

For I want to give you just a glimpse,

Of where he is today

And how he made the journey there,

It was quite a trip, I'd say!

I had cupped his little face with my hand,.

And said, "Hi, Kelynn, wanna see some cool things?"

With wide eyes sparkling, he gingerly nodded his head,

And he then reached out to touch my wings!

He squealed with great delight, as they tickled his chin,

And off we began to fly.

"Hold on Kelynn, hold on tight.

We're going really, really, really high!

We flew past the moon, the stars, and the sun.

We flew over all oceans deep.

We passed the planets, and the Milky Way.

And before I knew it, Kelynn was fast asleep.

But when we arrived at the big gate of pearl,

I gently ruffled his hair.

"Wake up, little man, we're home", I said.

And he opened his big brown eyes and stared.

For there before him were shining streets,

That glimmered in sparkling gold.

There were lots of other kids there too,

But no one there was old.

So he began to run like the wind and jump,

As soon as his feet touched the ground.

And headed straight out chasing some butterflies,

That were purposely hovering ‘round.

They were colored like the rainbow,

And flew with an elegance grand.

They were bigger than he'd ever seen.

About the size of a big man's hand.

And there before he knew it

Was a crowd of loved ones dear.

His great grandparents hugged and kissed him,

As more family continued drawing near.

But in the crowd, there was someone special,

And he stepped out and began to play.

"Here's a big, bright ball for you, Kelynn,

For this is your homecoming day.

They bounced that ball all over heaven,

And played peek-a-boo behind the clouds.

Once Kelynn fell upon his backside,

And they both giggled and laughed out loud.

For nothing can ever hurt you here.

No bruises, no bumps, no pain.

All is ever and only joy and smiles.

From the least to the greatest the same.

Then this special playmate invited,

"Come Keylnn, sit here on my knee."

Kelynn raced to his side and with one flying leap,

Snuggled as close as he could be.

Kelynn noticed there was something special

About his friend's feet, hands, and face,

And asked, "Did it hurt you when they did this?"

As he kissed the scars of grace.

Kelynn's friend's name is Jesus,

And oh, how he loves him so much.

Kelynn knows there is something special in Him,

‘Cause love, peace, and safety are all in his touch.

So one last thing Kelynn wants me to write.

To Mommy, Daddy, Grandma, Grandpa, and Brother.

"Please come to heaven to be with me someday.

Me and Jesus are waiting - along with many others."

I love you, Kelynn.