“The loss of a loved one is never easy, no matter if it is a peaceful death, one brought about by terminal illness, a sudden accident, or in senseless murder. We are left to wonder ‘why’. Indeed, ‘Why’ leads to many questions. Why did this have to happen, why not me instead of them, why should I continue on any longer…

When I lost my family, I wondered ‘why’. Why would a loving creator take away the family that I held so dear to me. I couldn’t find hope in those moments. Not when I watched my father fall to his death, my wife and daughter drown, or my son die from eating poisoned fruit. Hope seemed so far away with each successive death, yet it felt… close. Still, I continued on, knowing that if I gave up all hope completely, their losses would be in vain.

After becoming a Blue Lantern, it all became clear to me. I took heart knowing that I would see them all again in the next life, whenever and wherever that may be. I draw inspiration from the time I had with them. Knowing we will all be reunited someday gives me the hope to continue in the face of adversity, or in seemingly hopeless situations. It’s what drives me to to spread the Blue Light throughout the galaxy.

And for those who may not have a belief in a higher power or an afterlife, I say draw inspiration from the time you’ve spent with your loved one. Remember the good times, the love they had for you, and the strength they had during their own darkest nights. It’s in those moments, that hope always burns the brightest.”