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FEEDBACKS - PART 6
August 3, 2006
"My parents are still
alive. Thank you for your message."
"Thank-you for a very
moving tribute. It sure helps to put things in perspective as my
husband and I are both dealing with elderly parents."
"Just magnificent.
Lee"
"May all children who
see this video, open their eyes to what unconditional love is really
like. I know I have heartaches from my children and wish they could
just take time to view this and try to understand that parents are not
100% correct that they do make mistakes and they will also make them.
I am so blessed to have seen this heart felt video. Thank you and
thank Josh Groban for his wonderful song. May all be enlightened by
this. Shirley Lusk, Rock, WV"
"Thanks for this
beautiful site."
"Thank U for such a
BEAUTIFUL site! Now that I turned 60, this hits closer to home, as my
future seems to be flying by!!! Though my children won't relate to
this right now (for I am in good health and shape), this will be
something for them to consider later on. I'm sending this onto them in
hopes that they will remember. Martie Simmons, Thompson, Ohio"
"This is a beautiful
slide show! My friend sent it to me knowing that just last week I
moved my 82 year old mother into an assisted living facility. Her mind
is still sharp as a tack, but the body is failing. Therefore every bit
of attention she seeks is appreciated and understood. Though I
sometimes find the care and nurturing very tiring and restricting,
this brings to the forefront how very important it is that we still
treat them with dignity and patience. For as it says, we too will be
in their shoes – far too soon. It’s a tear-jerker, but beautiful and
inspiring. Thank you, thank you."
"Never have I
received such a powerful message. I sent this presentation onto my
brothers and sisters with a message that read- 'I thought of you
guys immediately when I saw this one'. Something to share with
your kids too! We did this, and I am so proud to be a part of this
family!! You older kids did it for Dad, and all of us did it for Mom,
including her grandchildren and in-laws. It is a gift like this that
helps heal that hole in our hearts, because we miss mom so much. Thank
you for that! Michelle from Red Deer, Alberta, Canada"
"You have touched the
very center of my soul with this slideshow. Thank you so very much. We
just lost our father a year and a half ago and mother's health is
failing also. Everything mentioned in the show is exactly what we went
through with dad and now mom. It has put all we've been through then
and now in perspective and really opened my eyes and heart to the
needs of both parents over my own. Again, thank you, from the bottom
of my heart. CJW in TX"
"The presentation was
excellent and it was really touching. I felt that every child should
get a chance to have a look at this. A Real great effort. Hats off to
you. I would be really grateful, if I could get the same in a
presentation (ppt or pps) format, so that it could be shared better."
"I was very much
impressed about the the powerpoint presentation played in that. It
really touched my hearts."
"I think this is
beautiful. Thanks for making it. It is a strong message because you
never know how much you are loved by your parents, until you have
children of your own. Thanks."
"It made me cry and
realize how I have neglected the ones that brought me up in this
world! Thank you for setting up this website and video. It truly made
a mark in my heart! I hope the younger generation will find the time
to view this and be refreshed and inspired once again! That it is not
important to impress their friends by ridiculing their parents in
front of them. The most impressive acts is when they give respect and
love to their parents whatever and whenever! God bless you!"
"After having just
visited by parents for what I thought would be a relaxing respite from
a hectic life at work and at home in another state away from my
parents, I found that my mother was having some issues with
remembering and understanding daily conversations, etc. I was shocked
and so much so that I lashed out at them both for the nit-picking they
were doing to each other all day every day I was there. I now
understand that my father who didn’t seem at all helpful to my mother
is probably trying desperately to cope with her idiosyncrasies
himself. I now feel ashamed I was so insensitive and this movie
certainly hits home for me. This is a 'MUST SEE' movie for
anyone who has aging parents or aging close relatives."
"Oh my GOD! I thank
you for this wish! It is so important, to put such into words
accompanied by music. It says everything that I am unable to say on my
own. It is a very impactful testimony from all of us to all of them! I
thank you with a grateful heart whoever put this together! Very
meaningful."
"My husband always
says 'Once a Man, Twice a Child'. Both of my parents are gone
now. I lost them in my 30's which is so young to be without them. No
matter how old one is, one always needs their Mom and Dad. There is
not a day that goes by that I don't think about them. And it would
make me so happy to know that I had achieved at least half of the
lessons taught in your movie. It was awesome. Colleen McLaughlin -
Ambridge PA"
"Viewing this slide
show brought tears to my eyes, as I am getting older and am beginning
to feel my age a little. I am realizing in a new way that life is
passing rather quickly. I cannot do physically what I used to do. My
body is letting me know in little ways. So I understand my mother in a
new way this year, more so than in previous years. Your Parent’s Wish
slide show brings all of the things in our relationship into very
sharp focus. Thank you. I’ll be sure to send this to my adult
children. Amy of LA"
"The presentation is
very touching. it gives inspiration. I cannot describe anymore the
feelings when I first saw the slideshow. Thank you for sharing it with
us."
August 2, 2006
"This video is
so beautifully creative, empathic and powerful evoking so many many
memories. Thank you for such a memorable presentation. You have
touched hundreds of lives. I enjoyed the many grateful feedback
comments you have received. They reflect the unity of emotion and our
humanity in expressing them."
"My husband and I
could not have said it better ourselves. Thank You!!"
"Wow! What a song and
the words blew me away I am in the health care and work with the
elderly every day. Congratulations! You nailed it perfectly. Bye,
Billie"
"I just wanted to say
that I don't think I've ever seen anything that expresses so
eloquently, the words and music on Parents' Wish. It was truly
beautiful, and I just wish my sainted grandmother, that raised me was
here, so I could share it with her. God Bless You. May God Bless You
for a beautiful tribute to the older parents, which I am fast
becoming."
"God Bless you for
spending time to establish Parents' Wish for all of us. I had
to run for the kleenex. As a single Mom of six for over 32 years -
having lost my own Mom only 6 years ago -and having gone thru the
personal loss of one son 8 years ago, I love Josh's song - he also
gets kudoos from me. My younger sister sent me your email - and
knowing her, she also went for the kleenex. Thank you so very much."
"This is so
beautiful. What a wonderful way to tell our children what is in our
hearts. Thank you"
"You had made an
excellent job. It's very touching especially to us Filipinos who are
so loving and caring... Congratulations."
"This was amazing and
so true!! You had me crying like a baby. These are scenarios that I
have seen in recent years. I am trying to instill the same values and
ideas in my twin children who are 23. Many Thanks for the
inspiration!! Lee Ann Rome NY"
"I am only 57 years
young but at times the words that I want to express to my only
daughter that are my heart who I have nicknamed her 'My LAMB'
since day one at time is so mean to me! As I viewed the tape I had to
stop periodically to wipe the tears. I reared her when her father
walked out on us when she was but a month old gave her all my love as
my mother did with her children when her husband left her with four
children and as my mother I walked the same pattern my mother did and
took my husband back just as my mother had done so that my/her
child/children could have a better life. I am so grateful that I did
not ever take my mommy for granted and when I think of her I have
nothing to say I am sorry for but Mommy I miss you so much and thank
you that God gave to to me for 14 days shy of my 51st birthday!"
"Tears to my eyes,
more love to my heart."
"What a wonderful
song. Makes you feel like you can touch God."
"This is the most
touching story I have ever read, it bought tears to my eyes when I
read it. I have lost both of my parents, but I was very fortunate that
I was able to help them out in their time of need. I miss them
terribly but I have no regrets for the way I helped with them. My
sister and I stood by them and we were do blessed by having two caring
and wonderful parents. Thank You, Louise Scott"
"Well said...
Thanks...I feel the same and have taught my children to feel the same
way. Judy Burnett Granbury, Texas"
"This was so
beautiful, it made me cry and it is so true! Thank U!"
"This is so
appropriate to what I am going thru with my father who has Alzheimer's
as he was such a vibrant, sharp man before the disease robbed him of
all this. I know music brings a smile to him, so it would be so
meaningful to all of us children to have this."
"It brought a tear to
my eyes, as I am becoming one of those that you spoke so well of. That
was a wonderful presentation. I hope many of the young people will
think twice before criticizing their folks as they get up there in
years. I know that I, myself gave everything to my son as he was
growing up and would still do the same today, I just hope he will
understand what I am about to start going through.....Diane"
"I can never tell you
what this video about parents has done to me in more ways then one. I am still typing through tears in my eyes.
I already had a huge cry when it was first sent to me by a friend who
knows what my brother and I are both sharing with our Mom right now.
All of it hit home and is so true. Whoever made it is to be commended
and anyone, no matter who they are, no matter if their parents are
still with them or they have already felt the loss of one or both,
everyone needs to see this beautiful video, hear the song and read
those special words. Thank you again for the inspiration I needed
because I have a heart always full of love for my Mom and devotion for
all she did for me when I was growing up and still does. Becky in TN"
"This was so awesome!
Beautifully done and the music, Josh Groban just adds to such an
inspiring presentation. You can't hold back the tears. It made me look
at my mother and gently reminds me that she is growing older and I
tend to overlook that fact. If this is available to buy, like on CD or
DVD, I' d buy it!! Is it? Thank you for a reality check! Waimea,
Hawaii"
"Thank you for this
very touching and important video - I think I will be a much better
daughter after reading it."
"This is so
beautiful. I cried the whole time but it has such a wonderful message.
I thought about my mother and how she was a single parent and did her
best to give us everything we needed. I took care of her in her last
years and she was never demanding. Thank you so much for this
beautiful message and music."
August 1, 2006
"I recently lost my
grandmother to Alzheimer’s. While she was sick, and particularly in
the last stages, I would have done anything to have just a bit longer
with her, time to talk to her and share memories, and learn some more
about this wonderful and amazing woman. I cried when I watched your
display, because it’s telling people to appreciate the older people in
their lives, and to have patience. A lesson I learned too late. Thanks
so much for taking the time and effort to make this available. God
bless you, from the bottom of my heart! ~ Carrie (Caghs)"
"Thank you. Just
Beautiful!!!! ALL elder caregiver's should see this before it's too
late! I lost my Dad and my Mom within eight months of each. I was
their main caregiver. Even though I have my own family to care for and
a full time job, I treated them with dignity, respect and lot's of
LOVE. It was both an honor and a privilege to care for them. I would
do it all over again if I had the chance. God Bless. Charlene,
Buffalo, NY"
"This is truly a
lovely video presentation. I would like to make a slide show like this
for my family using our old photo's. I love the way the text flows in
and out of the frames."
"It made me think of
the times when I have lost my patience with my 92 year old mother as
she is struggling with dementia and poor health. I hope that I will
remember these words and allow her to still have her dignity without
sacrificing her well being as she forgets to turn off the stove
burners or wants to 'do it herself' those things that are
unsafe for her. It also made me feel sad that I had complained about
the same question being asked over and over, or my despair that she
can't remember that her medi-alert necklace is to call for help when
she falls. I think that sometimes we don't want to accept their aging
because it is a reminder that we will be there someday ourselves.
Thanks for a beautifully done piece."
"Absolutely
Beautiful. It brought tears to my eyes. I wish I could have seen this
before my Dad passed away this past April. I could have understood
what he was trying to tell me so many times."
"That was great
presentation. It touch my soul and heart. The song was nice and the
words make us realized the reality of what parents have done for their
children. I just appreciate my parents even more. Thanks. I could
share that too with my friends. God Bless."
"I'm a 26 year old
man crying in my office after just viewing this. My father sent this
to me and he is a survivor of a heart transplant one year to this
month. Words can not describe the emotions that this piece brings to
my family and I. Thank you and I hope that everyone can take something
from this."
"I'm very blessed to
still have both of my parents in good health but this really touched
my heart. A good friend of mine is dealing with some of these issues
now. This is FANTASTIC. Glenn"
"This is a beautiful
e-mail. I know so well exactly what the message is in this e-mail. May
God Bless You."
"I was very touched
by this presentation. It was sent to me by one of my step-daughters
and I thank God for her and her caring ways every day. I just wish she
had warned me to have a box of tissue ready when I watched it!"
"Thank you for your
energy and effort on this. I would like to share the closing lines
from a note my own mother left in her safe deposit box for all four of
us: 'No matter what happens from now on – remember that I believed
that I was very fortunate. See if you can do as well with your lives.
Love, Mom'. Our mother wrote her note to us on September 30, 1974.
She died in March, 1995, and that’s when – as the eldest – I opened
and read her note. Each of us has copies of the last photos of us all
together with her and a true copy of the entire note, all framed
together."
"This is the most
wonderful presentation I have ever seen. It is amazing what people can
do with their minds, imaginations, feelings and technology. Thank you
so much for sharing this."
"Dealing with a 91
year old mother and a 53 year old husband with Parkinson's, it was
difficult to watch this without a box of tissues, but it was
beautifully done. THANKS!"
"Absolutely
beautiful!! Made me cry and confirmed my burden to help the elderly.
Thank you."
"Thank you so much
for the beautiful video and music. My mother-in-law lived with us for
awhile until her family felt they needed to put her into assisted
living. She had dementia and did so many of the things that were
mentioned in the video. Yet she was the most polite and easy to please
woman you could ever imagine. She appreciated every little thing you
did for her and tried so hard to be as little trouble as possible. She
was always trying to help everyone else even though she was older and
more feeble. She passed on last November at almost 94 years old. We
miss her, our children miss her and our grandchildren miss her. I only
hope that when I go I will be missed even half as much. Thanks, again,
your video brought up some sweet memories of her reminding us of our
"Grandma Elizabeth".
July 31, 2006
"These are the most
touching words I have read in a long time. How well the words are
spoken for we who are old and afraid to express our words without
crying. May God bless you all who had part in publishing this."
"A masterfully
created piece! If you have others of this genre, please send them to
me and others via email. Thanks. Carney"
"I am a Physical
Therapist in a nursing home. I have worked with the geriatric
population for 25 years and this presentation took my breath away. It
is so beautiful on how it portrays the changes that can come with age.
I see these changes all the time in the residents and I am always
affected by these people. I never knew my mother and my father lives
out of state, but these residents are like family and the presentation
is good for everyone who works with or knows elderly people. It is
labeled to children, but it could also be for grandchildren, friends
and caretakers of elderly people. I pray that this goes on for ever
for everyone to see and learn from. If people see this maybe there
would be more understanding of the aging process and its effects on
people. Judy"
"I just finished
viewing Parents' Wish and it sure made me cry. My Mom is 86 years old
and I can't wait to call her and tell her that I love her while I
still can. Thank you."
"I have seen this
before, but a friend sent to me again today, on the second anniversary
of my dad's death. One of the pictures in the video reminds me so much
of my dad, and seeing it again today was like a little visit from my
dad. Thank you! Judie Book"
"Many blessings to
whoever it was that put this on the Internet. I had tears flowing by
the time I finished reading it and have now saved it to play back when
I need to. Thanks so much. May God bless."
"This is absolutely
beautiful. I cried all the way through it. My Dad is dying of cancer
and is such a tribute to him, and to my Grandfather and Grandmother
who made such a difference in my life. We all are too busy and this
should make us stop and take some inventory on our lives. Thank you to
whoever made this, I will pass it along. Bonny"
"Thank you, thank
you, thank you. I will view it often. I miss my parents so much - they
have been gone for 9 years. I will send it to my friends and family
who still have living parents. Thanks again!"
"Why are some people
so ignorant that they must read something into everything? Why can't
they just enjoy the presentation for what it really is? It is in
fact a beautiful truth. Thank you. E.J. Morris"
"Thank You is not
enough.. but it's all I can say with these tears in my eyes.. you'll
never know how timely this message was in my life....~Stan~"
"I truly loved this
slideshow. It is so profound and so very real and needed to be said.
Thanks from the bottom of my heart. Marimac Texas"
"Truly beautiful, a
wonderful piece of work, thank you so much to my wonderful friend who
sent this to me, it surely will be passed on to all those I know, God
bless you."
"God Bless you. At 55
years old, and both of my parents gone, this is without a doubt one of
the most beautiful and touching things I have ever experienced. Thank
you, and God Bless You All."
July 30, 2006
"Parents do all the
things for their kids and the kids should do the same things for their
kids not for their parents. Thanks. --Sarim."
"The most beautiful
e-mail I have ever received. I cried all the way through it. Thank you
to whoever wrote this."
"This is a very nice
presentation. I choose not to claim any of these maladys for my wife
nor me. I kinda like looking forward to being a bit like my Mom and
Dad at 90, this year. Independent, coherent and fully functional. Ron
D."
"Outstanding. Loved
the music. Brought a tear to my eye on a Sunday afternoon. God speaks
to us all in different ways. Michael Wykoff"
"Absolutely
beautiful. Thank you whoever wrote the message. I love the song. May
God Bless You."
"Excellent website.
It put me in tears and I sent it out to everyone I know. Good taste in
music, as I just love Josh Groban. Wonderful, keep up the good work.
Roseann Sapp, Dover, Delaware""
"I have learned much.
My heart is now full to continue on. In His love, Chaplain Yuri
Murata"
"What a wonderful
video. I just lot my Daddy to Alzheimer's and would love to have this
on CD when it becomes available. Thank you for this. We took such good
care of our Daddy in his last years because he had taken such good
care of us when we were small. Very touching."
"I'm so glad that
ones have talent and able to express feelings that some of us have a
hard time writing down. This is written in a beautiful way that
touches many hearts. Forget about the negative feedbacks. To those
that don't like it I feel sorry for them because their lives must be
miserable if they can't see the beauty of this. Some people can't see
the beauty of life and how precious parents are and don't appreciate
it. Thank you so much from all of us that do love and appreciate our
lives and what our parents have done for us throughout our lives. I
will be passing this on to my children so they know how it will be in
the future for me and for them someday! Sarah from New Orleans"
"I have just finished
watching the slide show, and cannot hold back the tears. This is just
what I needed to see at this point in my life. I am taking care of my
dear 83 year old Mother, and this hits so close to home. There have
been so many times during the past couple of months that I would be
caring for her, and would have to leave the room to go cry. Of course
when I regain my composure, I go back in and try to be cheerful. But,
my Mother's precious Smile makes everything ok. I truly do treasure
each moment with her. I am sending this to my son, to help him better
understand what his beloved 'Nanny' is going through. All I can
say is Thank You, it is wonderful."
"I was crying when
watching this. My mother is 76 and waiting to die due to depression. I
get annoyed and frustrated with her attitude and don't listen or even
look at her at times. After watching this and having a 13 year old son
myself, I put myself in both his shoes and mum's. This is a profound
reminder of how much love I have for my son and how much love mum has
for me. I will now treat her as I would like to be treated if I ever
get to her age - thank you so much for sharing this video with me!"
July 29, 2006
"My mother is 85 and
suffering from Alzheimer's. This brought tears to my eyes as it
chronicles so closely her journey. I am sending it to those who find
it difficult to visit her in hopes it will help them better understand
the decline brought on by old age and that the love that was there
when they were little is still there with the greater need now tipped
toward the parent. The comfort this love brings to the aged and the
peace it brings to the young transcends the infirmities of a failing
mind and body."
"The Parents' Wish is
something out of this world! I wish there are more productions of this
nature that can be viewed on the Internet. Young folks should get more
heavy doses of these kinds of programs. They'd probably be more
appreciative of their parents. Thanks for creating it."
"I wish I had this
before my parents passed away. Taking care of them during their last
few years was a big blessing for us. There are not that many people
who were given the chances like we did. I look at those good days as
another bonding time. It was very easy bonding with them again. Saying
the prayers that they taught me while I was growing up came so
natural. Praying with them in our language, before they went to bed
and them sharing with me their struggles and their pains and of course
some of their unfulfilled wishes.. made me appreciate them more. I
miss them still, but, I am happy I was given those chances to take
care of them during their last few days. Flor Liza Obana"
"This is one of the
most sensitive and caring e-mail I have every received. I am the
Marketing Director for a retirement community and my father in law
lives in that community. I look at this website very often to put life
in perspective! Thank you!"
"I feel that you did
a service to us. As, I have felt the same way. I am 81 years old, and
I have felt this way, several times. But my daughter is the person I
tell this to. My health, like others, make you that way. Thank you.
God bless you. Carol"
"Incredibly
beautiful! ....... and oh so true. Blessings, Steve and Linda Owen Sun
City AZ"
"I'm one of those old
parents, my husband and I. The words say it better than we ever could
to our children."
"This was very well
done and it says what we would like to say as well as our thoughts, as
a matter of fact we sent it on to our daughter. Thank you for putting
it into words and music. Judy and Mick Welch"
"This was the most
incredible E-mail I have ever received. What a poignant message to all
of all ages. This was certainly the most important message I have been
by E-mail this year. Thank You!! Lori Mills"
"This is just a
wonderful piece. I have been caring for my mother for the last several
years, she has Alzheimer's and this just hits home so well. It really
brings tears to your eyes. What a wonderful, wonderful piece!!!!
sandy"
"I realized that I
(unfairly) am angry with my 85 year old mother for getting old and
losing her ability, physically and mentally, to deal with daily life
activities. I was not prepared to watch the strong woman who gently,
compassionately, consistently and without need for praise or thanks
over many years, provided me with the really decent components of my
character. My very insightful friend sent this to me today without
knowing I really needed it. I feel such gratitude for having the
opportunity to read words of explanation for what my mother is
experiencing and has attempted to explain to me, and see related
photos in this beautiful and sensitively created work. I find it
painful to watch and feel incompetent because there is nothing I can
do to make any of it easier for her. But you took action by providing
the rest of us with this lovely creation. And today I felt a sense of
sorrowful peace. Sorrow at the inevitable loss of quality that comes
in any human life and peace because I am so fortunate to have this
wonderful woman as my mother."
"I am 73 years old
and will send this to my 4 children to read. It was very emotional and
truly spoke of the problems we will encounter with our children as we
age. I truly hope that many of the younger folks get to see and hear
'Parents' Wish. A beautiful story and beautifully song. Thank You,
Louise Hamlin"
"It is so moving.
Thank you for having it for us to enjoy."
"The first thing that
came to my mind, is one of the Ten Commandments: Honor thy Father
and thy Mother! Life is like a big cycle – the more that you put
into life and into the ones that you love, the more blessed that you
will be. I cried listening to the music and reading the words. God
bless all of you for putting this together to remind us of who we are
and what life is all about."
"Thank you for the
touching work."
"What an excellent
reminder for those who forgets about our parents or in-laws. Thanks a
lot."
"This is so
beautiful. I love my parents very much but sometimes misinterpret
their 'shortcomings' because of their age. Your video has
reminded me that I must be always grateful for these two people who
are the ones mainly responsible for who I am today. I am forwarding
your video to everyone."
"There are few words
to express how I felt when I read your wonderful presentation. I am so
touched. After I send this to my children (adults) I will read this
again. Jo in McKinney"
July 28, 2006
"I received this from
a dear friend. It moved me and my husband very much. I work in a
retirement community that has assisted living, to nursing home, to
dementia units. I find this very fitting for most all of my tenants.
It really depicts how most of them feel. God bless you for putting it
into words and music. Jo Cruse, Niagara Falls NY"
"God has blessed me!
My heart was touched. I hope my children and grandchildren will take
the time to read this."
"I have received many
beautiful e-mails, but this is the most touching. I am 58 years old
and both my parents have died - 32 and 22 years ago and It seems that
they are still with me as not a day goes by that I don't think of them
- their love, strength, and character and most of all for their love
and their believing in me. I only hope that my own children will
remember me and their dad with such loving thoughts."
"Awesome… It made me
cry it was so touching. Thank you."
"Thank you so much
for this beautiful work of true art and compassion. I am 70 a widow
for 8 years. I am on my third round of Breast Cancer and always feel
that I am bothering my three children when I need help to go to
appointments, etc., so I have sent this on to me so maybe they will
look at it and understand my feelings. This will be kept in my save
folder to read over and over again. Ont."
"I just finished
watching and listening to your Parents' Wish. I have an 84 year old
mother that has returned to her childhood and I am now the parent. It
really hit home to me and will make me more understanding of her
present condition. I have a firm belief in God, heaven and faith that
my mother will be their with my father at her own time. Thank you so
much for presenting this to others as the strength you gain is
wonderful."
"I, like some of your
other viewers, have raised all 8 children alone. This is the most
sincerely touching video I have ever seen. I have taken care of my
Grandma, Dad and Mother throughout their last years and would do it a
hundred times over!! I have taught all my children to take care of the
aging, sick and feeble with LOVE and devotion and would love to send
this clip as a tearful reminder of the purpose of life. Without family
we would all be very much alone! Thank you for a great reminder,
Sharon Owens"
"Absolutely
beautiful! It made me cry. I am 59 and know that my daughter will make
sure I am cared for just like this because that's how she is. This is
a beautiful piece. Thank you."
"Heart warming and
true. Made me want to cry."
"My mom sent me that
and I just cried because I remembered how many times I told her no and
I won't do that and I feel so bad now! My mom watched it and she had
cried also. I am only 13 and now realize that parents do so much to
their children! That was the saddest slideshow that I have and will
see! I had emailed to one of my friends and I hope that she will be
touched by it just like I was!"
"It has all been
said. Well done as the Lord would say. Very touching indeed."
"Thank you - you did
a wonderful job putting that together. It was VERY touching and I'm
sure it will touch a lot of people."
"This is a truly
wonderful effort, a show that needs to be seen by not only those with
elderly parents but equally by young persons in the prime of life or
teens with their whole life ahead of them. I lost my father in battle
defending our country from invasion in 1965; my mother passed on just
last week. I still miss my fiercely independent Mom who raised us all
on her own and who became so dependent in her autumn years due to
Arthritis, a heart condition and finally due to two strokes. Now our
children will see this film and it will surely prepare them and us to
walk with each other more meaningfully in the years to come. Col ASP
Vinod, Secunderabad, India"
"What a beautiful
presentation! Everything is so true as I watch my parents aging.
Sometimes we need reminders of how they feel inside and how we must be
patient and understanding. Thank you for sharing this with us. I.
McDowell"
"I still can't stop
crying. This really made me think. Thanks, Ronda"
July 27, 2006
"You have no idea how
it touched my heart. May God bless your work and use the great manner
of reaching the inner being of man to carefully align our present
life. I enjoyed it to say the least."
"This is the most
beautiful e-mail I have ever received. Thank you."
"This was one of the
most moving emails I have ever received. It is sad, beautiful and so
true. It made me cry."
"Amen. This is the
most heartfelt and honest email I have ever received. I am 40 years
old and work in the hospital setting. We as a society do not treat our
elderly with the respect they deserve. Even people who work in the
health field tend to forget to be patient with the elderly because
they get so wrapped up in the job itself. We all need to be reminded
from time to time that we needed and will need to be taken care of by
another, so we should take care of those that need us when we can care
for them. I only hope that this will help to aid in making some
children think about their relationships with their parents and make
better choices. Cindy (Michigan)"
"I needed to be
reminded to have understanding. I have a hard time understanding a
loss of hope, but this reminds me that I don't have to understand
everything, I just have to be there and be kind. Thank you."
"My Grandfather lost
his house in Florida during a Hurricane. He came to live with me and
my family. He passed away in a hospital instead of at home where I'm
sure he wanted to be. I couldn't understand why he wanted to give up.
I wish I had this beautiful slideshow to show to our family and to
watch when I felt like I couldn't take care of him. I miss him so much
and still watch this slideshow to remember him and that he lived a
good life. Thank You to the person who made this. It is very touching
and I send it to people who are caregivers of the elderly, or anyone
who might one day have to. God Bless, Barbara"
"This is the most
poignant slideshow I've ever seen, perhaps because chronic disease is
aging me prematurely and no one seems to understand how disabled I am.
The sentiment is beautiful, as well as the graphics, and I am
forwarding it on to friends and family, hoping it will help them cope
with me and my limitations. N.H. in Florida"
"I was raised in an
orphanage and never knew my parents. This presentation took to a new
level the extent of how much I have missed along the way. I once
thought I was blessed because I knew I would have no elderly parents
to care for, now I realize the selfishness in that. Thank you for the
emotional, touching presentation."
"I lost my father
several years ago, I think getting this at this time is a message from
him. He was not treated at times very well. I didn't beat him or
anything like that but I would get upset at times. If a medal could be
given to the person who put all this together he should be wearing it
proudly. Thanks for bringing back some fond memories."
"This presentation is
the most awesome I have ever seen! It truly makes the viewer take a
step back and realize what is important in life and how we all need
each other. I love the way it compares the roles of parents with their
children when the children are young to children with their parents
when the parents are aging. My grandfather has Alzheimer's so we can
relate to the repeated phrases well, but this is an awesome reminder
of how we need tolerance, patience, and understanding (with young
children as well as aging parents). I will be sure my dad sees this as
soon as I can. Thank you so much again for your time in putting this
together. I'm sure it will bless many to come! Kim, Mt Sterling KY."
"I work as a
volunteer in Pets as Therapy where we visit nursing homes and
hospitals with our pets, cheering up patients and residents. As well
as interacting with the lonely, the frail and aged, we also see many
dementia sufferers. Thank you for reminding me that it is not only how
we treat our own parents but how we treat everyone. Parents' Wish is a
valuable reminder that should hang on every nursing home wall! Sandra
Sydney, Australia"
"Thank you so much.
That was awesome! Having just gone through the death of my husband and
getting lots of support from two sons, this meant so much. He had to
be helped almost every minute of the last months of his life. Thank
God the love was there in his eyes and that I had the strength to give
a helping had."
July 26, 2006
"This beautiful
message was sent by a friend. We are now into the senior years and can
truly appreciate the thoughts shared. Thank you for saying it so
beautifully. Jobee"
"If only I had the
chance once more, just once more to say 'Thank you' to my mum
and dad. Arnold Richmond"
"This is the most
wonderful web I have ever watched. Who ever made this must have a
beautiful heart. It has touched me so much I guess cause I am getting
to the age of the people in it. I showed it to our children and they
were very impressed with it. You must be a genius. I work in a
hospital where I see the elderly parents being dropped off at the
there and the children leave them there With a bag of their medicines
on their lap. It is very sad to see this."
"I am caring for my
87 year old mother and this has truly touched me. I cried. I loved
it.."
"Thank you for a
beautiful show. This is what life is like, no matter what their age,
disease process, or upbringing. This should be made into a video for
those who have elderly parents, those with prolonged/terminal illness,
etc. I am sending this on to my parents."
"I want to thank you
for the website, It is very beautiful. Both of my parents are gone
now. I wish my parents were here with me and their grandchildren
today. I know I would have said and done things a little different. I
tell my husband that still has both parents to really enjoy them and
don't ever take it for granted that they will be here tomorrow,
because tomorrow is never promised. I would never ask my children to
help me. That is just the person I am. But I would like to think and I
Hope that when I reach a point where I can't handle life or care for
myself, that my children will step up with the love and compassion
that their parents had given them, to take care of us.
"This has had to come
from somebody who has 'been there - done that' and it is
beautiful. No matter how hard we try, we cannot stop time nor what it
brings our way. The only thing we can do is control how we respond!
Thanks for the lesson! Linda P. Shaver"
"A most beautiful
website. Thank you."
"This is one of my
very favorite songs by Josh Groban. Both my parents are deceased and
my mother-in-law just died on July 22, 2006 a week after her 100th
birthday. She survived her husband by 41 years. Obviously, I cried all
the way through."
"I lost both parents
so quickly. First my mom got sick ended up in hospital. Then 2 weeks
later my dad took a heart attack and died. I was in shock. My mom
pulled through but never returned home. She died 8 months later after
8 months of hell. This is absolutely beautiful. I cry everytime I
watch it. It is so appropriate. I love it but find it hard not to cry.
Thank you so much Lillian NL"
"As tears run down my
cheeks, I have to say: This is the most meaningful email I have ever
received."
"My grandfather just
passed away. He was living in an assisted living facility and we
shared it with the caregivers who were helping us in his final days.
They could all relate, because they were all, or had gone through a
time of caring for their aging parents. We all sat and cried as we
watched it together. My grandmother is still alive, and I think of
this slideshow everytime I am with her now. What a beautiful message
for those struggling with elderly loved ones. I hope it gives everyone
new perspective on the precious time they have with their parents or
grandparents! Laura St. Louis, MO"
"Beautiful! I can't
help crying from beginning to end. Very moving. My youngest son
watched it, he sobbed. As tears rolling down his cheeks, he embraced
me and said 'mom, I love you so much'. Now, I can't wait
showing it to my only daughter and my eldest son. Whoever did this has
a brilliant mind. Everyone ought to see this slide.- Miles Jacinto"
July 25, 2006
"Two days away from
my 70th birthday, widowed, but with 5 loving children. I want my
grandchildren and great grandchildren to know these truths as well. So
touching. I cried."
"What a wonderful
slide show! I have watched this several times already and each time,
end up by crying. I lost both my parents and can identify with this. I
am also a mother of 5 and grandmother of 4 and hope my children are
not too busy to watch this. I have sent a link of this to MY 5
children AND friends! Thank You for sharing L Diaz- Paramus, NJ"
"Thank you for
putting this beautiful slideshow together. As I am sure you must know
and understand how much it echoes, reflecting each parent's thoughts
and feelings, as I have heard those very words, in a different
language, from my own parents. Thank you with heartfelt thanks, from
me, my parents, and parents all around. Regards, WAI"
"So wonderful - I
cried throughout the whole presentation and it is hard to type this
through the tears. The song is one of my favorite. Thank you, whoever
you are for providing such a powerful video. Mary Young, Glennville,
GA, USA"
"Thank you so much
for this presentation. As a woman with an 87 year old father and a
mother who passed away 9 years ago, this touches my heart deeply. I
will share it with my friends, especially those whose parents are
still living."
"It is beautiful. I
wish I had seen this before my Mom died."
"Thank you so much
for such a wonderful web site and message. I could not stop crying,
you see I lost my mother when she was 64 yrs old and I just can't seem
to get over her departure, I wish she was here. But I understand that
God has specific plans for each one of us and that does help me. I
hope and pray that someday I'll be able to see her again and I hope
that each tear that I cry for her absence is makes a trail to her up
in heaven."
"I though this was
beautiful and very moving."
"Thank you for
bringing us this beautiful tribute to aging parents. It's very
poignant."
"Hello, my name is
Carrie Hanson. This is the most beautiful way to let your children
appreciate what you have done for them when they were little until
now. When you are old and gray and can't remember things like you used
to!! It touched me so much!! I just recently lost my Great Uncle! It
was a very hard loss but he was ready to go and touch Gods face and so
we let him go!! It was so hard! In the end, we all got to touch his
face and ask him to touch Gods face and let it shine down on us!! He
was a wonderful Uncle and he will be GREATLY missed!! His name was
Darryl Webb. We Love You Uncle Darryl! Thank You for having this
web-site for those of us who need to speak out for those who can no
longer do that! That song was a great compliment to my Uncle and well
known to this Christian family!!"
"Thanks for the reminder
that life is precious at all stages. Love never fails! B.B."
"Loved Parents'
Wish!!!!!!!!!"
July 24, 2006
"I hope this softens
some people who have no time for the elderly. I know it has mine. What
a WONDERFUL PRESENTATION. God bless all, Melva Messer"
"The slide show shown
was great. It made me realize all that my parents have done for me
over the years and for that I am grateful. The slide show was very
inspiring and I enjoyed it very much. Thank you."
"Thank you for this
beautiful tribute to our parents. I am dealing with my Father who
after living through a life-threatening disease for almost a year and
has fought his way back, his wife doesn't want him to come home
because it is too stressful for her. Oh my, I wish she could see
this."
"I am today
celebrating my 72nd birthday, and am very dependent on the help of
others due to a spinal cord injury. This is the most beautiful e-mail
I have ever seen and it helps me to accept my station in life. God
Bless."
"I want you to know
how special Parents' Wish is to me. I have cared for a grandmother,
father, mother-in-law and father-in-law in our home so they could be
surrounded with the love of family and maintain their dignity. We have
6 children who learned from each experience, but now that we are
ageing, having lapses in memory, using aid to walk, but still very
independent, they often become frustrated with us and sometimes
embarrassed. Needless to say, I sent this most beautiful slide show
with its wonderful music to each of them and everyone else I knew.
Thank you so much for allowing us to be part of your inspiration. Ruth
Ann & Dave - Modesto, CA"
"Absolutely
wonderful, very nicely done, my mum and dad are gone now, but my
mother-in-law is still living, but has dementia, this presentation
helps us to stop for a moment and re-think things. Had to bite my lip
a few times to stop me from crying. Thank You."
"Wow what an eye
opener. I have elderly parents. The music fits the pictures so well. I
even can relate to some of the saying under the pictures. I have sent
this to my children also. Thank You."
"This is one of the
most touching slide shows that I have ever seen. Parents' Wish was
beautifully done. My loving parents have both passed and I miss them
very much. Watching this brought back many wonderful memories and of
course much tears. My husbands parents are both still with us and are
in their eighties. My children, husband and I have always loved them
but will hold them closer to our hearts now, cherishing them and
respecting them, as they so deserve. God has taught us to help those
who cannot help themselves. To respect, honor and love our parents,
grandparents and the elderly. Our parents were there for all of us.
They loved us and cared for us as only they can do…Thank You so much
for gently reminding us of this. Louise."
"What a great slide
show. It made me cry. My father passed away this last December. He had
always been a worker and very active. He was 86 When he passed in a
nursing home after 9 months. When he went in he could walk and feed
himself but as time went on got weak, fell and before you knew it
could do nothing for himself. I held his hand I cleaned him up and
told him I loved him and not to hang on for us. I gave him drops off
water and rubbed his head and told him we are here for him. I love my
dad and miss him very much. My mother passed 26 years ago and was only
60. I did not get a chance to say good bye to her."
"What a wonderful
presentation. It makes you realize you need to stop and slow down/have
patience and understanding and not to take for granted that everything
will always be the same and to show love to the living."
"WOW, what a slide
show! I shared it with my 17 year old son and came to tears when I saw
him sobbing! What a blessing it was to be able to share it with him
together. Thank you....."
"Thank you for
sharing those thoughts with us. I have lost both of my parents in the
past 5 years and it reminds of so many things in our past. I loved
them both and shared many things with them with very few regrets, if
any. This you shared, only shows me that there can be many GOOD things
found on this thing they call the computer! Thanks again and God
Bless. Ohio gal.
"Thanks for sharing
this with everyone! As we are taking care of our elderly parents and
loose our patience this helps to put things back in prospective. All I
can say is WOW! I have written a message about my 88 year old mother
that I'll have to share with you sometime. I had been working on it
for some time and gave it to her on my 50th birthday 2 years ago. I am
blessed to still have her in my life."
"I lost my
grandfather 2 years ago while I was in the Army, and never realized
what he had done for me in the 20 years I had been alive. I never once
thought about things from his point of view, and now I gladly fight my
way through everything the exact same way he did."
"A very touching
moving music background and the words so written! I brought in my sick
Mom in February to stay with me as she attended hospital. She is on
and off as she has high blood pressure. I kept on thinking of her as I
read the message and listened to the music and it really hit me as I
have noticed sometimes she calls my brother my other brother's name or
she takes longer to understand a topic you may be talking about
someone or an event. At times my brother gets irritated about it but I
sort off take it cool. I need to send my brother a copy of this
message and I hope he gets its meaning! Thank you very much for
reminding me to be patient with my Mom who is getting old. Liz Khavere"
July 23, 2006
"Absolutely great.
What more can I say. Ray - Lorain, Ohio"
"This is the most
beautiful message that I could have sent to my children. I cried
through the whole thing because it brought back the memories of taking
care of my Mom who passed away in 2001. The music to it was just
beautiful. It fit the message very well. Thank you so much. Jacqueline
Eiger"
"Wow, that really hit
home. It reminds me of how much I love my parents who did an excellent
and loving job of raising all nine of us. It also invoked memories of
my father's final part of life prior to leaving us for Heaven nearly
two years ago. Thank you for helping me to always remember and
appreciate. Willard"
"This was beautifully
done! Although I cried, I enjoyed it very much. I would love to send
it to my son, but it would be a reminder to him that his father has
not been there for him. I need a mother/son (single parent) version of
it. Thanks for sharing and allowing me to share my thoughts with you."
"Thank you so much
for the beautiful presentation! I am the facilitator of an Alzheimer
Support Group, have written a book about caring for my late husband
who had this disease and am currently writing Alzheimer Awareness
newspaper columns. I will be sending this on to many. We all need
reminding and this does that is such a touching way. The music is
lovely. May it touch many hearts. June in BC, Canada"
"I believe that this
is the first thing my parents sent me by e-mail that made me cry! This
is a fabulous presentation and strikes deeply into the way I feel
about my parents and most older people. I thank you for your work and
wish all adult children could have access to this site. Thank you and
I will send a thank you to my parents as well. Terry Dohl".
"Outstanding delivery
of VERY IMPORTANT emotions and thoughts we should all think about
often. I was deeply moved and amazed that I think the same thoughts
often. Most people don't think about these things until it's to late.
Thank you! I will forward this on for sure."
"This was so
beautifully spoken. I cried first of all because I love that song, but
also because of the truth of the words."
"I lost my mother to
Alzheimer's on July 18, 2006. For whom ever the author of this poem is
and the owner of this video and whomever made this entire site, you
must have know my mother cause the whole site is about her. It is
about her fighting her battle with Alzheimer's. I know she's in a
better place now and God knows how much I'll miss her but I just
wanted to whom ever this site belongs to, Thank you. Charles Simmons"
July 22, 2006
"Thank you so much
for giving me the words to share with my daughter. I have often wanted
to say this to her, but didn't quite know how to communicate how I
truly feel. I am a senior citizen and she is my only child. I think
it's important for her to understand the aging process and allow me
the dignity of getting older and leaving this earth in peace."
"Being a father of a
grown son and daughter with my first wife of twenty one years and
having two wonderful grown step daughters with my wife Mary now of
twenty three years, Parents' Wish really hit home. I was so moved /
chocked up by the whole presentation I would love to have all four of
my children see it. I can only thank you in the biggest way. This
means so much to me."
"Too many years ago,
I became estranged from my mother, my half-siblings, and worse of all,
my children. My mother was the epitome of what a REAL MOTHER should be
and I miss her terribly. We lost her on 1 April 2004. This website not
only brought back wonderful memories of my mother, but it reminded me
that perhaps one day, my children will look back on their lives and
understand me, accept me again, and forgive me. Thank you so very much
for putting this wonderful, heart warming, and very thoughtful
'Work of Hope' together. Anita, El Paso, TX
"This is a powerful
movie. The message is beautiful. I wish I could have done those things
for my parents but they died before they got old. My son is 21 years
old and not going on to the next step in life. I will show him this
movie and talk with him again about getting a job and going back to
school or joining the military. I hope this will help him to see why I
am anxious at times. We believe that child needs to help his parents
as they get older. Thank you. MFA"
"Thank you for
keeping Parents' Wish on your website. As a nurse I see these
scenarios more often than I care to admit. The combination of the
words and the songs are powerful. I will be recommending this site to
my students to empower their learning process about the circle of
life. God Bless, Debi C."
"The tears are just
starting to dry on my face. This is a beautiful message for all but,
most especially for those of us with older parents. My husband and I
are blessed to still have our parents with us. We have noticed
the changes in their behaviors and have been struggling with our
reactions to those changes. This presentation has confirmed what we
have believed and reminded us that the greatest of all gifts is
togetherness and love. Thank you for the beautiful show. Doreen"
"My son sent this to
me and the first time I saw it, it was about children, not about
parents speaking to their children. It is so touching to those of us
who are in our 70's and getting weaker and less able to get around. I
have forwarded it to many of my friends. I tried to print it, but only
the last page printed. Thanks for this beautiful tribute. Carole Cuneo"
"I really like this
email. I have always said that if you want to know some history ask
your Parents and grandparents. Our folks tried to teach us right from
wrong and took time out for us. We need to do the same for them and to
be there for them."
"I was never so
moved, watching this e-mail of Parents' Wish, I loved it so much, I
sent it to every one in my address book. Thank you so much. Stella"
"This is one of the
most Beautiful E-mails I ever received, Thank You so very much. I hope
I can see and hear more."
"Loved the e-mail
about the parents getting old. It was beautiful."
"Thank you for
thinking of someone other than yourself when you designed this tribute
to our parents. I know that I have gotten frustrated more than enough
times with things that have been said and done by my parents, now in
their late 50's. I know now as a parent of two young children that
life is survived and can really break one down. This not only brought
tears to my eyes, chills to my skin, but a greater understanding of
who parents really are. The most wonderful gift that God has allowed
the world."
"How beautiful, it
brought me to tears having lost both my parents now. My Son at 28
years old was also in tears as we viewed this together. After viewing
this I received one of the most heartfelt hugs from him that I have
ever had. Thank You from the bottom of my heart for providing such a
wonderful slide. Teri"
July 21, 2006
"Do you have a
version that just says love Mom, Or Love Dad? There are many divorced
and widowed single parents for whom this would be wonderful to send to
their children. Though my Ben's father would feel the same way, we
can't send it together, and it is still painful for my son to think
about us NOT being together. Thank you in advance for your time and
consideration. Lisa Barnes"
[Webmaster's note: The
Single Parent version is now available. Please click PLAY MOVIE above]
"This is a wonder
presentation. I hope you don't make any more changes to address the 'politically
correct' concerns of some or it will lose a lot of the impact."
"Bless you - this is
outstanding and sorely needed in our fast paced world where parents
are often forgotten. Priscilla"
"This really touched
my heart. My Mother has Alzheimer's and my Dad has already passed. It
is beautiful."
"Possibly it could
read: 'Even if your parent weren’t so loving, patient and all the
other things they said to be because they were.' 'Be nice to
them anyway despite how they treated you growing up.' Some
parents surely were not all those things that the writer intended
deliver with that message, but I still liked it, my dad wasn’t always
the greatest Dad But I took care of him anyways. Although there are a
few mean older people out there."
"Thank you so much
for the beautiful webpage. I've sent it to my brother who is our dad's
caregiver in the hope that my brother will get the message before it's
too late. God bless you. Josh Groban's music is awesome!! Joan Rooney"
"That is the most
true and beautiful thing I have ever read. Sure there are people like
myself that do not have to be reminded, however, there are many who do
have to be reminded. Sometimes some people take their Parents for
granted and just don't think about these things. Thank you for this
website. L.M. Little Britain. Canada"
"First off, I have to
tell you how incredibly gripping this presentation was and to thank
you for your thoughtfulness and kindness. I am certainly interested in
a CD copy of this presentation."
"A friend recently
sent this to my daughter, who, as a young teenager, has a tendency to
forget that we all grow older and that we all need a hand on occasion.
My daughter came to me after receiving this and ask me and her mom to
watch it. I was touched deeply and my wife wept softly, our daughter
gently hugged us both and said she'll be there to help us as we grow
older. As life can be ironic, my wife has been battling brain cancer
for over a year now and her time is drawing near. The movie touched
her so much that she has sent it to her two older daughters. Parents'
Wish has helped bring together a mother and her daughters who were
before so afraid of what is happening. It has brought comfort and
understanding in a time when both are hard to find. Please keep this
alive for other children to see and hear and to hopefully understand
that 'we all grow older and that we all need a hand on occasion'.
Terry Mills Greenwell Springs, LA"
"I lost my dad 2
years ago. He knew he was going – and tried to prepare me- I didn’t
want to listen. I hope that my children will read this and understand
when it comes my time."
"I am from Germany
and got this link from my dearest friend who lives at the States. It
is very touching and while watching it I can't help myself to start
crying! The song seems like to be written just for this. Very
beautiful! I passed it along to a lot of people, because I want to
share this wonderful message with everyone. Thank you so much!!!
Petra"
"I was also very
touched by this. My mom, sister and I have been through a lot with my
father and he's only 57. Masive heart attack, cancer in the throat,
cancer in his hip, and now they saw spots on his lungs and he cant eat
because of the cancer in his throat, so if anybody should know what it
feels like to take care of a parent and husband it would be me my
sister and mother. My father has given up if this is cancer. But we
will always stand by his side till the end and cry for him but not
weep for sadness, he put up a fight!"
"I just lost my
mother two weeks before I received this from a dear friend. Needless
to say, I cried throughout the entire presentation. It is so good to
see these kinds of messages on the Internet. Thank you."
"I LOVE your site,
however, I am the owner of a Mac and when I go to your site under US
and Canada (East Coast) I can play the film, and hear the music (song
) but I don't have the writing come up as I do when I go to the other
U.S. site. I did not have that problem when I visited your site last
week. Elizabeth Hooper."
[Webmaster's note: That
problem should have been fixed now. Please try to view the slideshow
again from our main site]
"I am an only child
am I am currently dealing with the fact that at some point in the near
future I will be dealing with this elder care issue. This window into
my parent lives is possibly one of the most insightful visions into
their lives and wishes. I spent some time viewing the other feed-back
that had been left for you and I was appalled at those who would
criticize you and your intentions. It is truly a shame that those so
inclined would become so 'snippy' at something intended to be
so beautiful and heartfelt. I took the time to forward this to my
parents so that they may feel more comfortable with the knowledge that
I may understand their concerns. How selfish of those who seek to
condemn you. They should be ashamed."
"This presentation
explains why we do what we do here at Good Shepherd Healthcare
Center."
"May God Bless you
abundantly for preparing this piece. I am to that stage now and I want
to send this to my kids. You did a very sweet, heartfelt, work of
art!!! Thank you!!!"
"I would like to
share this video to my friends whose relationship with their parents
are not in good condition. I am deeply touch by the way the video was
presented and I am touched by the way it is executed - finally
realizing that one day we would be parents too and their predicament
over their children would be felt by us. A lifes' cycle."
July 20, 2006
"I was very touched
by this slideshow. The message that it expresses is so true to life
and so real. It puts into words so many feelings that I have had with
my parents who have now passed away and some that I feel right now
with my own grown children. It also holds true between spouses as we
grow older together. I have passed this on to my family and friends
and I hope they share the same feelings as I have watching it. I
believe that whatever the definition of your family is, they are your
family, and you should always be there for each other in all walks of
life. Terry Bibeau"
"I work in a dementia
unit. It's been 10 years and I would not change my job for all the tea
in China. I watched your video and it brought tears to my eyes. I had
also passed it on to some of my co-workers and management. We feel
that anyone working in our nursing home should see this video."
"I have seen many web
sites but this is the tops of tops. My mother passed in 2005 and it
made me think of my mother. I play this site all the time, this
deserves an award. May god be with you always."
"I just watched
Parents' Wish and I am in tears because I am going through the very
same thing with my mom. She has Alzheimer's and I visited her
yesterday and I see her in the images in the video. My siblings are
younger and don't understand her and are doing some of the same things
in the video. I will save this and invite them over to view this. I
think EVERYONE should see this, it hits home. Thank you."
"Beautiful and
Heartfelt Sentiments! Peace, God Bless and Many Thanks. From Parents
and Grandparents, Eugene and Mary White"
"On March 3, 2006
while I was visiting my father who was 95, he just stopped talking and
was gone. He passed away of an immediate stroke. He knew that my
husband who my father called 'son' was not doing well but he
wanted to go first and he got his wish. One month later on April 2,
2006, my husband passed away of a three-year fight with Pappalary
Thyroid Cancer. This song was one I chose to be played through the
sound system at our church by this artist. There was not a dry eye in
the sanctuary which was packed with family, friends, and colleagues."
"What a wonderful
tribute to our seasoned loved ones in this life. We will all be there
one day and it's so important to know how much we learn and respect
our elderly. My mother is 87 and I treasure each and every day with
her. Her smile makes it all worth it and her encouraging words are
like nothing I have ever experienced. She is my rock. Thank you for
what you have successfully accomplished here in this video. Ann B.
Akron, Ohio"
"All I can say to you
is, THANKS."
"We here at Elder Law
Practice absolutely love what you have created!"
"This is a beautiful
presentation but the pictures are stretched out of proportion. If this
were a powerpoint, I would fix it myself but perhaps this is something
that you can address in putting together the CD. Thanks, Mary Beth"
[Webmaster's note: To
view the slide show with the correct proportion of the pictures, click
and view it in NORMAL VIEW]
"I just finished
reading the Parent's Wish that was sent to me by a friend. I am
crying. It was perfect, beautiful and so very true. I am going to make
sure that both of my sons read it. I am saving it. It may help
children (grown and growing) to respect and understand their parents.
Thank you for such a gift! Denise"
"I watched Parents'
Wish with tears streaming down my face. My father has had a massive
stroke and he is not the same man that I remember as a child and young
adult. My mother has so taken care of him so selflessly. This makes me
take the time when his mind slows down when he is talking with me or
when he calls atalks with me (saying the same things over and over
again). I am so thankful that I have both of my parents with me. I am
thankful for Parents' Wish so others along with myself will be able to
treat our aging parents with the dignity that they have always treated
us with. Gene"
"I was reading the
comments and came across one where the person said that parents do not
remind their children of all the things they did for them. That it's
manipulative to throw that in the child's face. I just want to say, my
parents are those parents in that video. They don't need to remind me
of the things they've done for me, but maybe they should. I get short
with them when they can't remember something, or when my mom gets
pleasure out of sitting in my kitchen and watching me cook, but I'm
angry simply because 'she's under my feet'. I've learned in
these past two years that any time spent with them even though they
are 'under my feet' is absolute joy. They would never remind me
of what they've done for me, but I know I've reminded them of things
I've done for them in the past. I know I will never again do this.
Thank you so much for reminding me of all things that I sometimes
forget and I will try to never again forget these things."
"This is the best
email ever I have received, I took care of my mom and watched her as
she said no more. She was a survivor from Hilter, and when she said no
more, I understood.... God bless you all."
"I cried and cried
and haven't for so many years. I shared this song as many as I could."
"I was so very moved
as I watched the slide show, it brought me to tears! With both my
parents passed and me getting older I truly understand. I have passed
it on to many of my friends as well as my children. Thank for making
such a touching and truthful slideshow."
July 19, 2006
"Awesome. I have a
lump in my throat and tears in my eyes. This really made me think and
want to do things differently. You couldn't have said it better.
Thanks for the inspiration."
"Thank you so very
very much. It is so beautiful and so 'right on' I am now a
great grandma. You have so accurately put all of our thoughts into
words and music. I sent it to our young pastor and he mentioned it in
our Wed night service. I believe it really touched his heart. It was
sent to me by a dear dear friend and I had to share it with others.
God bless you for your special insight and wisdom. Shirley F. (OHIO)"
"This Parents' Wish
touched my heart and I sent it to my children and friends. Someday it
will affect most of us if we are lucky enough to reach the old age. Of
course each year old age changes as I get older. The music was
PERFECT! The words were PERFECT! I work in the health care field and I
wish each family member could read this and know how important the
needs and wants of the parents is not always what the children want.
Ask each child what would you want if this was you? Thank you for my
wish. I. Weise"
"What a moving piece!
I cried like so many others who have written. I lost my father to lung
cancer 11 years ago and my mother is rapidly deteriorating from
Alzheimer’s. It makes me feel grateful to have the loving parents I
had. It also puts in perspective the many feelings and emotions I
struggle with on a daily basis in caring for my mom. I would like to
thank all those responsible for creating such a wonderful slide show.
I will pass this along to my 2 grown children. Terri"
"I wish I would have
seen this 3 years ago before my mother-in-law moved in with us. I hope
I showed her enough love and patience. She is now with her other son.
I tried to not let her see my stress but I know she felt it at times.
All through the years (38) I always told her and others that I
couldn't have asked for a better mother-n-law."
"Wow!! Every child
should see this and save it for later."
"I never really got
to say goodbye to my parents and this is a regret I will live with all
my life. This song and Parents' Wish slideshow also makes me remember
others who are dear to me in the same way my parents are. I better
understand my parents now – they may not have been well educated or
rich, but I was a very lucky young girl to have had them as my parents
and the others as family and friends. I love Josh Groban’s music and
voice – he made this that much more special. Thanks for sharing this.
June and Loren Saunders, Barstow CA"
"I have never read
such touching lines. It hit hard as we lost my Mother and Father both
in the last 3 years. It made my heart ache and yet it made me smile
and remember them so fondly."
"Would like to add my
wish to that of some others. Parents' wish is beautiful but would like
to see it for a single surviving parent. Would be more meaningful to
some of us."
[Webmaster's note: It's
there now. Please click on PLAY MOVIE above and select the Single
Parent version.]
"I wish you would
make this into a commercial. This has touched my heart in a way some
might not understand. In seeing this I thought of my grandmother who
passed away last year the day after Thanksgiving and of my uncle who
passed away this year the day before Valentines day. I want to Thank
you for making this slide show. I will forward it on to many and hope
it touches them as it did me. The music was beautiful. Respectfully,
Carla Sherman"
"Asking for
compassion as a senior citizen is one thing but to guilt our children
in to it as if they will have no feeling for us on there own is
ridiculous. The raising of a child is there right because you brought
them in to the world, they did not ask for it. I am a parent of two
young children so I know what it’s all about. I will not send your
message to anyone I no!!!"
"I watched this
little video and you have no idea how touching this was for me. My
parents are both gone and I am approaching the age when so much of
this will be true in my life should God grant me the time. I have been
a man grown for so many years yet I still find within me sometimes
that touch of the child and young man that I was. I pray that none of
us ever loses that. I am sending this to all my children, not as a
precursor to old age, but as sage advice given. Thank you for your
presentation. God bless."
"As I type this I am
crying. My 86 year old Mom lives with my husband and I and I pray
every day for patience. This world is so fast paced and has caused a
lot of people to suffer from impatience. This has made a difference in
my day to day relationship with my Mom. She is a wonderful Mother and
deserves only the best, and that is just what I intend to give her,
the best I have to give. I intend to make every day she has left as
good as it can be. Thanks for this wonderful presentation. Every child
should watch this. Margie"
"What a beautiful,
heart-felt, sad, so true video I think I will ever see. We take care
of our children when they are growing up and they in turn take care of
us when we grow old, and shame on the ones that don't. God is
watching....Kathy"
"It was nice but i
felt like I would be begging my children to treat me right when I
already know they will know what to do. I know you probably won't
include this in your feedbacks but I wanted to give my opinion
anyways. The music was very depressing so I would not pass this on."
"That was absolutely
beautiful. I have grandparents who are in there 80’s. So I definitely
understand. I will share this with as many as I can. Trina, CO"
"Thank you for the
very touching Parents' Wish movie. My mother was in a nursing home for
almost 12 years and passed away in 1999. I was with her 2 days before
the Lord took her home to be with Him and I never regret that time
alone with her. The song is so appropriate for the slides."
"Thank you for
opening some peoples eyes I do hope this gets to some nursing homes as
will maybe it will help some of the aide and nurses to understand
better."
"Parents' Wish is
truly beautiful, and set to one of my favorite songs. One reservation
I have about the text is the thought of an elderly person not wanting
to live any more. With a history of suicide in my family, I feel that
a phrase like being tired living would be better. Kelly of OK"
"WOW! I think about
what's going to happen to my husband and myself as we get up in age. I
keep telling my kids I don't want to be alone in the end. This I think
is going to help. I'm going to play it for my kids and pray they will
all take turns and help me if we need it. I can't thank the maker of
the movie enough, for being able to put my feelings into something I
think my children will understand. Radiobel of WI"
"This slideshow is so
very powerful. I would like 3 copies of it on CD as soon as they are
available. Thank you for your work in continuing your website for
Parents Wish."
July 18, 2006
"It'd be cool if one
could add a picture of a loved one to the end of it that has passed
away then e-mail it to other members of the family."
"This was the most
heart wrenching item I have ever seen on the Internet. I wish you
could rewrite it to a child from a single parent. I sent it to my
daughter who is a single parent of a son. I wish it could be from a
Mother or a Father to their special child, that would make it perfect.
Thank you, Judy"
[Webmaster's note: The
single parent version of Parents' Wish is now available. Please check
our main site for the link]
"Oh my gosh, I just
saw Parents' wish for the first time. I was overwhelmed with tears. I
had the privilege of being the primary caregiver of both of my parents
over the past 5-6 years. It was such a joy!!! They died within 6
months of each other. I miss them deeply. When my Mom passed, I played
'You Raise Me Up' by Josh Groban at her funeral. What a fine tribute
to all of our parents who have gone before us. Thank you so much.
Charlene"
"Thank you so much.
Both my mother and mother-in-law have Alzheimer’s and my father-in-law
has lung cancer. Some days it feels like I can’t go on and then
Parents' Wish shows up on my computer. Thank you for giving me exactly
what I needed. And reminding me what’s really important. I have to go
now. I have to go visit my mother and then meet my in-laws for
dinner."
"I sobbed as I
watched Parents' Wish. It brought back memories of my own mother and
father. Everyone should watch this and just maybe our elderly people
will get back the respect and dignity they deserve."
"That is absolutely
beautiful! I love it and will pass the link along!"
"I would like to
thank you for such a poignant and beautiful slideshow."
"Love it! We are
going through this with my parents right now. Do you have a DVD of
this? I have a sister that doesn't have a computer and I'd love to
have her see this because she sometimes treats my parents like
children trying to tell them how to live their lives. I think this
would make a great impact on her. Thank You Rachel Riekenberg"
"I think you
denigrate the original lyrics when you revise them to satisfy the
beliefs or disbeliefs of particular listeners, notably FAQ 8 and 9.
There's nothing wrong with wanting to end it all after a full life and
before the totally degrading diseases like Alzheimer's kicks in."
"This was so
beautiful and touching. Don't ever stop publishing it. I cried through
it all. I forwarded it on to my children who have computers. God bless
you in days to come."
"Thank you for
Parents' Wish. It is true that as a parent you only want the best for
your children and try to give them that with all the love you can
muster. We love our son more than life itself and now our daughter in
law, and wish only love and happiness for them. MH"
"One of the most
beautiful and moving pieces I've ever received. Thank you."
"I am a big stubborn,
tough guy and rarely cry. Oh my God, I cried so much, both happy and
sad crying. Both parents have passed on now and it saddens me that
most of the 10 children they had could not show the emotion this
presentation depicted at their time of need. I love and miss them both
so much and this just highlighted my own inability, but more
importantly my brothers and sisters inability, to show love and
emotion. I have learned a very valuable lesson. The choice of music,
words and pictures were perfect. Thank you."
"I Think this short
video was brilliant and oh so very true. I have 7 children they know I
love them all dearly but this small clip tells it all. Thank you
Michael O'Dell, Birmingham, UK"
"This is so
Beautiful...... THANK YOU"
"Wow, this is a
tribute for sure. It would be great for you to put it on TV, for all
of the world to see. It is a mouthful of truth. It is so very touching
to the mind, body and soul. I have worked with the elderly, and sick
for thirty eight years. God lead the mind, and hand of the author of
this. Thank you."
"I have watched many
videos but this one tops it all. Thanks for a job well done. Are there
any other such inspirational videos at ParentsWish.com or maybe other
websites that you know of? Lee Yow Teng
"[Webmaster's note:
Please check our FAQ for a link to some other
inspirational websites.]
"I’ve always loved
Josh’s singing, his voice and the lyrics that he sings. My impression
of this song has always been a somewhat different one – more spiritual
really, but I lost my father last year and I miss him terribly – when
I listen to this song now it will have a dual meaning. Thank you for
this lovely insight and reminder of how important our family ties
are."
"I just finished
watching the powerpoint presentation. I must say it touched a raw
nerve in me. It brought tears in my eyes and a new understanding for
my mom who, in my eyes, has done nothing but irritate me. Thank you
very much for coming with something like this. Thanks to Josh Groban
too. His music was really something else. Charo Treyes"
"Parent’s wish has
touched my friends who has lost their father and henceforth they will
say and do what they may have not done with their fathers to their
mothers before it is too late. God Bless you who have taken the
trouble to share this beautiful slide show and most appropriate song
by Josh Groban. Personally when I hear his song I sing it to our Lord
Jesus Christ who has been my father since I lost mine at the age of
10. God bless and touch all who has this wonderful experience of this
very meaningful slideshow. LOVE IN CHRIST, JULIANA SHARINA JAYABALAN"
July 17, 2006
"This is very
touching. My parents are both gone. I miss them so much. I wish they
could have seen this. Now I get to pass this along to my three
children. A warm thank you to all who have worked so hard to make this
possible. There is still a lot of good in this world. Kathie"
"I just wanted to say
that this is so beautiful. As I read it I started crying. I am 53
year’s old and it really touched my heart. I would love to see more of
this if possible."
"Just Awesome. Very
well done!!!!!!"
"Thank you so much
for letting everybody viewed this very touching video. It will really
enlightened everyone's mind once they read this. Right now my Mom and
Dad are both having some pain on their legs, back and hands, and they
really needs help now in walking. I forwarded it to my brothers and
sisters so they can really understand the situation of getting older
and realized that getting older is a scary thing to happen. God bless
and thanks."
"My mother is 88,
very ill and this time has been in the hospital. A few years ago, when
Josh Groban was just becoming popular. I played his first hit at my
murdered brothers funeral. I wonder if he knows how much those words
mean to us and hope he doesn't think we only think of them in time of
grief? We are surely blessed with these words of his and thank you for
all that you do. You are greatly appreciated. Sarah ... Smiles."
"This is such a
beautiful presentation - I, like many others cried while I was viewing
it. Thank you so much for sharing it with others."
"Thank you so much
for sharing this wonderful story and the beautiful music by Josh
Groban. We all need more e-mails like this! I hope you'll share other
stories and music too. Again, many thanks. Esther San Bruno, CA"
"Thanks this is a
very moving slide show. I always wondered about my parents when they
were sick and older why they said some of the things they did. Now I
am the one in their shoes and I know what they were trying to say from
personal experience. Again thanks, maybe our own children will look at
this and understand a little better than I did when my parents were
alive."
"Thank you for
putting things into perspective. What a beautiful website. It touched
my heart. My Dad is 83 and my Mom is 79 (w/dementia). They were
wonderful parents and I have great memories of my childhood. Seeing
them now, slowly failing, is very difficult. Thank you again for your
encouragement during these difficult years in the circle of life."
"I think this was
beautifully done. I e-mailed it to my daughter and has kept it for my
husband and siblings to see; their mom is 89 years old."
"From the moment I
started reading Parents' Wish I was in tears. It was a flashback of my
parents' wish to us - their children."
"It made me cry! I
intend to forward it to all my siblings."
"This is so beautiful
I wish I could have shared it with my children. Unfortunately, it does
not allow for single parent families."
"This was sent to me
by a friends mom, humm... it's very touching and reminds me to slow
down and be cool. I lost my grandmother in '03 and everything there
applied. I almost cried. Who ever did it, GREAT WORK."
"It is
beautiful...thank you so much! Diane"
"This is absolutely
wonderful!"
"Never have I been so
touched by watching and listening. Thank you."
"I sent the link to
my adult sons, and their response was IMMEDIATE understanding and
compassion for our struggles to learn the computer and grasp what was
going on with our 3 year old granddaughter and her treatment for
Leukemia. I sent it to a friend and that very day he cried and called
his elderly father in his 80's to make peace about a disagreement they
had just a week before, and was able to allow his dad the time to
adjust and comprehend the information he was giving him for his
betterment, and was able to accept his father's decision...something
he could not do before he saw this slide show. We are all in our 50's
and not THAT ELDERLY...but it applies none the less. This piece is
working Miracles !!"
"Thank you for this...it
was beautiful! Barbara"
"An amazing message -
much needed. Touched my soul."
July 16, 2006
"I have been with my
dad for over a year now...24/7. I have patience, but at times, it is
difficult. I watch the video when in times of need. It is so true, a
lot of listening and hearing repeats, but, I am so glad that I can be
here with him. I always was before when he played ball and fixed
everything, and now he can't. I told him that he taught me, so I am
here now helping him. Thank you so much for this inspiring
presentation."
"Your beautiful video
cannot be viewed without tears. If you view it and there are no tears
I would check for a pulse. I'm not quite there yet, but have enough
health issues that I've been deteriorating rapidly since my quad
bypass in 1998. I've sent it to all 5 of my children and hope it is
received as it is meant. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for
such a terrific presentation."
"My mother has passed
on, but my dad is still with us, and I found your Parents' Wish to be
most poignant. I will always cherish it, and will certainly pass it on
to my family and friends."
"I, too, would love
to send this to my son and my daughter, but, like the woman who wrote,
their father has not been a part of their lives despite my many
efforts to welcome him in and give them the joy of two parents. To
sign it 'Mom and Dad' would not make sense to them. So, if you
do create a version signed just by 'Mom', I would love for you
to send a copy to me, and I will send it to them."
[Webmaster's note: I
have added your name in my email notification list if and when we find
the time to produce a separate version for a single parent.]
"I read this with
tears in my eyes. Who ever put it together had a true feeling for
parents as they get older. I am sending it to my 4 children in hopes
that they well realize why I say it's time to go. My body has really
gone and now I am becoming very forgetful and I am ready to go be with
my husband who past away 5 years ago. Thank you for putting this
together and thinking about elders."
"It is the most
poignant, truthful, sentimental piece we have seen in a very long
time."
"It makes me cry and
it makes me smile. I am a 73 year-old quite sick lady, bed and
wheelchair bound, living with a son and daughter-in-law and 3
grandchildren who care for all my present needs and I have been
widowed now for 9 years. We have been and are a rare, close knit
family that have stood by each other with love that bonded us like
glue, caring for, and sharing what each has with the other. Greed does
not exist with us. The center of our lives, one and all is Jesus
Christ our Lord and Savior."
"This is a wonderful
slideshow. My Mother is in Hospice and every work is true. I believe
Hospice would love to use this piece since it follows their
philosophy. Hopefully they are aware of this site or you can make them
aware of it. Thanks for publishing a wonderful slideshow."
"Just visited your
Parents' Wish that someone sent me in a email. This is so touching
that I cried while I read it. please email me as to when it will be
available on CD and its cost. This is awesome."
"This was the most
beautiful email I have ever received. I sent it to all my family and
friends and to all my children. As aging parents we can only hope that
someone in our lives will listen to what this email is saying. Thank
you so very much for making this available. God Bless You."
"What a beautiful
tribute! A real inspiration to me as I care for my mom, and comfort to
me as I remember caring for my Dad before he passed away in 2002."
"I loved every slide,
except one and because of that one I hesitate to forward this on. God
decides when we die, it is not our choice. We must put our faith in
Him."
"Thank you for the
beautiful gift of your time and talent to make this Parents' Wish
available to parents all over the world. We live in Westlake, Ohio and
are on the brink of becoming the needy, elderly couple featured in the
program. How very comforting it is to know how many people contributed
to its production and have captured the essence of what we, as
parents, have tried to accomplish and pass on to our children."
"I sent this to my
children and friends. I cried all the way through. And I will send it
out again every month to remind us to love . I am 76 years old and
know how they feel, thank you."
"I lost my mom 2
years ago and miss her more everyday. My daddy lost his wife of over
50 years and has been so lost without her. He is now 81 though I think
of him as the strongest man in the world. He is now in the hospital,
trying so hard to be independent, but this man of God is ready to go
home to be with Mom. He made them tape his wedding ring to his hand
for surgery, he wouldn't take it off. Thank you for reminding us."
"This slideshow and
words and music really hit home. I had a lump in my throat and tears
in my eyes. I saw how my mother took care of my father who had
Alzheimer's and Parkinson's until she couldn't take care of him alone.
Now, my mother is aging, and has a live-in aide. She has trouble
walking, and hearing and memory loss and sometimes it is very
difficult to lose patience and your temper with her. When I read this
Parents' Wish, I had to think back of how she took such good care of
my Dad to the end. She deserves the same. Children sometimes don't
have time for their parents but if they read Parents' Wish hopefully
they can re-think their behavior towards their parents. Denise, S.
Fla."
"Profound message but
it takes way too much time to play. The boring factor overcomes the
desire to see it through to the end. The ability to page through
faster would help."
July 15, 2006
"This is such a
wonderful story you are sharing with everyone. It has taught me a
different way of thinking about my parents and I plan to review it
every time I go home to visit them. I've sent your link to all of my
sisters and brothers as we have at times here lately complained about
our parents to each other. This definitely will give us some different
and wiser food for thought. Thank you again for sharing this very
inspirational slideshow."
"WOW. I'm a boomer.
I've been living out west for the last 20 years. My father died 3
years ago and I moved back to my hometown in the Midwest to be with
family and my mother. She accepted my father's death well. She
appeared to be moving on. She has always been the one in control.
However she is now starting to show signs of forgetfulness. I want her
to be 'her'. And I get angry. After listening to Parents' Wish
what I realize that what I need is patience. I understand now. Thank
You. Karen"
"Thank you for that
video. It helped me back up and take another look. My father suffers
from Alzheimer's and I care for him. My mother (deceased since 2000)
had Alzheimer's. I took care of her also. It's so sad to see them turn
to you as if you are their parent and they are the child. Please keep
me informed on all the videos. Marie Doan Mansfield, Ohio"
"What a beautiful,
truly beautiful slideshow. I sent it to my children, but I also sent
it to my parents and told them how much I loved them and thanked them
for all they have done throughout their life for me. Thank you so
much.. you don't know me, but this just made my day."
"I work in a nursing
home going on 11 years. I would love to have a copy of this to share
with people just how special families are."
"What a beautiful
message. It made me remember the things I had to tell myself as I took
care of my aging grandmother before she past this May. I would
love to send this to my two sons but I am a single mom and their
father is not in their lives. Thank you, although it brought me to
tears it makes you realize that everything comes around full circle at
sometime. I am getting married in August and was looking for a way to
honor my grandmother, I will use Josh's song. Debbie Zaruszak"
"I just want to say
that this is the most beautiful presentation that I have ever seen.
Thank you so much for sharing it. I am going to tell everyone that I
see about it. I, too, am an aged parent and I too, hope my children
will always understand me. You have done a wonderful job. Thanks
again, Della"
"This was the best
and most powerful email that I think that I have ever received! It
fits perfectly in my life with my parents after 62 years of married
under their belt! I have found my self impatient at times and do my
best not to. I vow to go to this site every morning as I start my day!
Thank you oh so much! Your friendly neighborhood Jeanne!"
"I am trying so hard
to help a parent that seems to be giving up. Through my tears, all I
can say is 'Thank you.'
"Without a doubt the
most poignant email I have ever received."
"I am not easily
touched with Internet sayings, but yours.. was so beautiful, the best
i can say is: thank you- thank you- thank you!!"
"I just want to say
thank you for that, it was very touching!"
"This is wonderful. I
am 86 years old. I have sent this to both my son and daughter so they
will understand. They are both wonderful to me but I am not sure they
always understand."
"My father emailed me
a link to your site, to which I was stunned at what awaited me. I
would like to thank you for being able to put into words what my
father always told me before I moved away. Once again, thanks very
much. Mr. Matthew Maloney"
"I just viewed the
video and was very touched. I must admit toward the end I couldn’t
help crying. I own a senior care business 'Home Instead Senior
Care' located in Lakewood New Jersey and we care for older adults.
Many of our clients express the same thoughts and concerns to their
Caregivers. The message in the video was beautiful and I truly feel
that it can be helpful to the adult children of my clients. I would
definitely like a copy when available. I am going to pass this along
to all my friends and especially our corporate office located in
Omaha, Nebraska. Andrea Carney"
"Thanks for sending
such a wonderful message of truth of life. Request you to keep me on
your mailing list, if any. Mehul"
"Nice movie and
sound, pretty touching. It sounds like someone loves their parents as
much as I do. Thanks again to whoever composed it."
"I think more
nationalities should be portrayed in the pictures. Otherwise, good
job."
"I found this to be
such a wonderful video and tribute to us (the ageing adults) that I
forwarded it to my 28 year old daughter. I think the greatest thing I
heard from her is, 'Mom, I cried when I watch it ~ made me do a lot
of thinking'. Thank you for putting this on the web and I am
adding it to my tagworld site for others to see. God Bless you. Renee"
July 14, 2006
"Amazing slideshow;
very, very moving!!!! Couldn't watch the entire thing the first time
all the way through, without crying. Had to watch it at home. Thank
you."
"I have no questions,
just a huge thank you for something so beautiful, that I still have
tears running down my cheeks. Many thanks and much love, from a 71
year old mom and gramma."
"It was beautiful!!!
However, there are many of us who are widows and widowers or divorced.
It would be nice to have something done from Mom or from Dad."
"Thank you so much
for all the time and effort you and your friend put in to make the
Parents' Wish. I know that many, many seniors are singing your
praises. May GOD bless you! Appreciatively, Marian Endo"
"Words fail to come
as the tears pour down my face. It says everything I would love to say
to my children."
"This although it
brought tears to my eyes is really beautiful – especially the last 4
or 5 slides. Thank you."
"A beautiful message
-Thank-you. Sallie Reid"
"Beautifully well
done. Becky Z"
"I was so moved by
this slide show. I lost my father 6 years ago and have since been
taking care of my mother. She has had two near death experiences and
I've stressed through both of them. I take the message of this show to
my heart. I only pray that when I get old, my children understand all
these messages and take care of me the way I'm taking care of my mom.
I love her with my whole heart, and she deserves all the patience,
love, and care we can give her. Thanks again for making such a
beautiful and moving work of art. Donna"
"I absolutely love
this. This makes me cry everytime I see it. My Father is 74 and has
always been very active until this past March when he had an accident
on his bike and broke his neck. My Mom has Alzheimer's Disease
and is in an assisted living facility. I want so badly to send
this Parents' Wish to every staff member at this facility, hoping that
this video will play in their minds as they care for my Mom and every
other resident there. I just want to thank you again for this
beautiful video, the pictures, the words and the music are perfect.
Clarice"
"Of course,
wonderful.... and much needed in this especially self-centered
generation of today. I hope it reaches thousands and thousands. We all
need reminding. Thanks."
"Whoever made this
possible has the heart of God. For God is love and this site reminds
us that love never fails and is long suffering. I never want to forget
what my mother has done and went through for me. This message is so
strong and powerful, only a fool with a heart of stone would be
untouched by it. I have 2 grown sons on their own and a 12 year old
daughter I'm still raising. Reading this message makes me want to love
her and train her even more, to be kind and loving to the aging. God
Bless You for your labor of Love. Deborah-Indianapolis"
"Words cannot express
how this made me feel. It is beautiful, and I couldn't have been sent
it at a better time. My father is dying from cancer and doesn't have
much longer to live. I will treasure every last moment with him, but I
will understand that he is ready to go. God Bless You."
"It was great! It
actually brought tears to my eyes. I have an 81 year old mother which
I really love with all my heart and she is the greatest mom. I
wouldn't trade her for the world! Thank You and Have a Great Day!
Anita Garcia"
"It was wonderful. It
really hit home. My dad is 80 years old and won't leave his home. I
have a nice room for him, but he won't come. I have my mother-in-law
and her husband here and they love it. My dad would have his own
master suite and phone line. I wish I could send this to him, but he
doesn't have a computer. Thank you for making this video. Leeane"
"Words can't describe
the emotional impact of this offering! I cried my eyes out and then
went to the phone to call my parents! My patience is often tested with
my elderly parents and this brought me back to where I needed to be.
Adding Josh Groban's singing 'You Raise Me Up' couldn't have
been more perfect! Thank you!!"
"This is the most
beautiful and touching e-mail I have ever received. At this time in my
life, my son is in prison, and my daughter has nothing to do with me.
I miss them both so much and really miss seeing my grandchildren.
Right now I am surviving this ole world and know in my heart I was a
good mother and had a good mother and father. They are both gone now
along with my brother and I miss them all so much. They were very much
a part of my life when they were living and someday I know I'll see
them again. CJS"
"Absolutely beautiful
- I cry everytime I see it and I am sending it to my eldest grandson
today. The music is beautiful and was used at Geoge Best's funeral in
November 2005. He was a famous footballer in England and he came from
Belfast in Northern Ireland."
"My Wife and I loved
it and shed a tear. It was send to us by a friend, and put it in my 'keep'
box"
"My daughter sent
this to me. I cried as I have been through my parents, husband's
parents, and my precious grandparents, and often when with them I
wonder how do they feel, am I doing their wishes?? Now 2 of my
children have seen the video and hope 2 more do. It is very well put
with a lot meaning and love! Keep up the good work! And crying does us
well. Tears of LOVE! Janet Johnson--OHIO
"Thanks for
confirming all the things I have been saying to both my parents and to
my children recently. Since my folks' health has been going downhill
and I've been helping them more and more, my mom and dad keep saying 'thank
you for.... helping me to the car... taking me to the doctor... buying
groceries...etc...' to which my response is always, 'I'm happy
to do it because I love you and I know you've done it for me so many
times.' Your slide show and words hit the nail on the head and
made me teary. I want my whole family to see it."
July 13, 2006
"Very touching, loved
everything about it and the singing is just terrific. So nice to
listen to someone who can REALLY sing nowadays. Thanks Jeannette
Ferrie"
"Oh how this touched
me so, I think I shed enough tears to make a small pond. So many
memories were put to my mind of my Dad that passed in 1985, and my mom
that is still with us, but not doing well. Thank you for this
beautiful site. I sent it on to our 26 year old son, I am sure it will
give lots of thoughts to him as his father is not doing well at all
with his health. Again thank you, Teresa"
"Life as we know is
very colorful. A color for each sentiment... and this slideshow
expressed every color in life. This really touched me, you have no
idea how hard you made me cry. I open the slideshow everyday to help
me get through my grieving because my father died last may 21, 2006. I
never had a relationship with this man but I am so hurting because I
have longed for him my entire life and when he came back to us for
love and affection it was when he was dying. My story and your
slideshow combined is something else! O cannot find the right words to
express how I really feel right now except for thanking you for
helping me get through life right now."
"This is one of the
best sight I have seen since INTERVIEW WITH GOD. This would make a
wonderful screen saver. Hope to see it soon after the CD. DON JONES"
"Thank you so much it
is awesome! I work in an assisted living home and I'm going to refer
all of the families to your site. Also I work with Hospice in my area
I'm going to refer the nurses to your site. I think you should put
this on disk. Sincerely, Lynda, AZ"
"I'm a 58 year old
man who had to put my 75 year old mother in foster care. This makes me
sort of regret it but, I myself is handicapped and barely can take of
myself. I just hope my stepdaughter will bear with me as long as
possible. The only thing I can say about Parent's Wish is WOW!! R.D.
Spreeman"
"I sobbed watching
this, my parents are in their eighties and I live about 6000 miles
away. I miss them daily. Thank you for reminding me what I have."
"I am making this
comment in a very very constructive way so please don't misunderstand.
Thanks for the opportunity for this feedback. This is very beautiful.
I love the music and in general the message, except that I am
uncomfortable about the reminders about what 'we did' for them
in their childhood. It sounds like 'payback time' and am not
comfortable with that ulterior motive."
"Someone sent me this
today and it made me almost cry. It is beautiful! I work in a nursing
home with dementia residents. I love my job and what I do! I am glad
that you made such a wonderful site and I think more people need to
see this."
"This is just so
beautiful, I cannot express how this has touched me! I am sitting at
my desk at work, with tears streaming down my face, and I can't wait
to send it to my four children and friends/family. Thank you!"
"To quote an earlier
posting: 'I just cried buckets!!' It is perfect as is. My wish
is that this message would be sent to someone at the Federal
government level with the guts to address dementia, Alzheimer’s, and
other debilitating diseases that affect our elderly population.
Additionally I wish that drug companies would truly look for cures and
not ways to line their collective pockets with the millions of dollars
earned from the sale of over-priced products. My parents are elderly
and must constantly look for ways to cut costs to maintain their
modest standard of living. I just wish I was in the position to be
there for them. I visit when I can, but it’s not enough. Signed: A
loving daughter, anywhere USA"
"Thank You it has
touched my heart in ways you will never know."
"This is the best
email I have ever received. Well done. Please forward it also, to all
doctors, nurses, aides, orderlies, and anyone else out there that come
in contact with the elderly. As per my experiences, (I am 42 years
old), many of us need this message. Continued Blessings, Miss
Kymberley Loschiavo"
"It very beautiful
and has touched my heart have never seem anything this beautiful!"
"Thank you so much
for your creativity, your time and expense. Parents' Wish is so
beautiful!!! I sent it to my brothers and sister and we all cried. We
are in the process of placing Mom in an assisted living home, it's
hard for us to do but, thanks to you and your 'team' it helps
us understand and gives us patience with our mother as she is frail
and losing her memory, and doesn't want to shower, etc. Thank you so
mush for all that you have done. The Patton family"
"I just wanted you to
know that I work with the elderly at a nursing facility and I think
that all family members, and staff alike would really benefit from
watching this video. So many things are true, and would help
especially family to cope a little better. This is an great video."
"Oh my, now if I can
just see through the tears. This is the most beautiful thing I have
seen in a very long time. The words are wonderful and so meaningful.
And the song is perfect for it. People do need to take care of and
love their parents as they age. My parents have both already gone to
heaven, but as I age, I hope this will mean something to my son and my
daughter. I can't say enough about this. It is absolutely beautiful.
Thank you for sharing it with us."
"This is one of the
most beautiful things I have ever read."
"This is wonderful!"
"This was the most
beautiful saying I've ever read! Thank you."
"Beautifully done.
Thank You sooo much, Bernadine Janco"
"GOD Bless you. It's
very touching. I can't stop my tears down. Now I'm thinking... am I a
good parent like the parents in the Parents' Wish had done to their
child? Thank you for this reminder."
"Thanks. Truly
awesome."
"What a wonderful
work of art. It touches the soul. It's a powerful reminder of the
cycle of life and our changing roles in it. Bless the givers and
receivers of this video."
"This is the most
beautiful presentation on the elderly that I have ever seen! I wish I
had both of my parents here today so that I can start over. Absolutely
lovely. Gloria J. Williams"
"It is really
wonderful.... You dragged the tears from our eyes just to assure us
that we exist after all."
"I truly enjoy and
love a Parents' Wish. Tonight I went into comments from readers, and
was shocked with the (comments) of Euthanasia? Evidently these
comments come from people that never really took care of ill people. I
hear a Parents' Wish as a letter written to a child they love --just
incase the day comes when they can't say 'I'm sorry', or
'forgive me for not being able to go through this time on my own'.
A Parents' Wish to me is --To please understand, now that I'm here,
this is who I am, and please don't judge me--you're not in my shoes,
one day you will be wearing them, and when you do you're entitle to
feel however you wish-- and don't be surprised if you feel about
continuing to survive as I do. Thanks, Alexandara"
"Your presentation is
very good but I find one disturbing (to me) aspect. There are 15
slides, 4 of them don't show a parent, 2 of them show a mother, 9 of
them show a father. This seems to me to be a bit one-sided. It always
says 'we' but it is a man in most of the slides."
[Webmaster's note:
Please see item 15 of our FAQ]
"I received this from
a friend and thought it was beautifully done. I would like to send
this to my two daughters who are 20 and 23. But their dad just
committed suicide a few months ago. I feel it would hurt them to much
to see it. I will save it and send it when I think their ready. I want
them to see it as I am still here and plan on reaching that ageing
stage. We all come into this world as an infant and if we live long
enough we sometime return to that stage. Thanks, Margaret in
Mississippi"
"I have never been in
tears before until reading Parents' Wish. I am a 66 year old father
and have sent this to my 3 children and everyone on my address book.
This is the most desired email that I have ever seen that I can send
to my children. I thank you so much. Loren"
July 12, 2006
"I saw the powerpoint
and I cried. My dad sent it to me. He was in my mind the whole time I
was watching the movie. I've not been the best daughter and know
how much pain I gave him. I never wanted to.. but I made mistakes.
Lots of them. I hope other children like me get to see this movie. It
will make them see they're nowhere near where our parents are now."
"I would like to have
the lyrics to this. It struck home to me, personally, because of my
mother and my mother-in-law. I would like my children to read this.
This is so important for children to read, and understand what their
parents are going through and what their wishes are. Every parent
should send this to their child/children. Please, send me just the
lyrics, so I may include this in my 'last wishes'.
[Webmaster's note: The
lyrics of the slideshow can be viewed and printed from this website
address:
http://parentswish.com/faq-01.htm]
"My eyes are
watering. My heart is full.... full of gratitude for the creators of
this wonderful slideshow production. Thank you for making me more
aware of the cyclical nature of life and the love needed to sustain
each of us. John-Hans Melcher"
"Is there anything in
life that isn't made more beautiful by Josh Groban's God given voice?
And is there anything so precious as understanding that we are all on
a journey that somehow manages to revolve back to when we were little
kids just before we go for good? Thank you, whoever you are, for
sharing this beautiful movie of words and photos. I wish my dad had
lived long enough in his young life to ask me to be patient with his
old age. Again, thank you."
"Awesome! I will use
this for my Caregiver Program. It will hit home for many caregivers
struggling to understand their parents!"
"This presentation
was sent to me by a friend. It touched my heart, and we both have a
lump in our throats when we view and listen to it. Thank you so much
for it. Josh Groban has a marvelous voice, and I hope to find some of
his recordings one day. May God bless and keep you in your efforts to
tell the truth to those who want to hear. Joyfully Serving Jesus
Christ My Lord, Grace Roberts"
"This is beautiful.
Thanks, from A mom (blessed with 3 children)"
"A beautiful website
contributing to our Fathers amd Mothers. Thanks. Beverly @ Oklahoma"
"I want to thank you
for such beautiful words. With an aging mother-in-law I have been
looking after a lot of her needs and all the words in your Parents'
Wish will help me in my everyday struggles to understand her more and
be patient and to listen and to treat her with dignity. For all of
this I thank you. Ardith Rae"
"I work for an Area
Agency on Aging and shared this with others in our office. The nurse
and caseworker who train our aides would like to have the CD to use as
a training video for our aides. Everyone who saw it here cried, and
loved it!"
"I’ve read most of
the other feedbacks you’ve gotten and can see that it did for most
people just what it did for me. My dad died when I was only 21. My
mother passed away in 1998. My mother-in-law was blind and very
deaf. She would sit in her chair and say, 'Oh, God, get me out of
here' over and over again. That’s what we mean when we say it’s OK
to die, she was ready to leave this life. This was a real tearjerker
and I will send it on to my children. Fortunately, they are all very
patient with the elderly having helped me with both my mother and
mother-in-law. What a beautiful production, thank you so much. I
apologized to my mother in heaven after seeing it for the times I was
so impatient with her. I’m still crying. Bonnie Fletcher, Kirkland,
WA"
"This was a beautiful
presentation. Too bad that people confuse being ready to die as
condoning assisted suicide. No one asked to be killed just to be
allowed to die naturally. Some are the same generation who also fought
to birth naturally. Interesting isn't it? The people who should fear
death the least are the ones who want to avoid it as long as possible.
So like the presentation says, 'don't be angry when I no longer
want to live, soon you will understand' KM R.N. New Hampshire."
"Having just taken
over the care of my 86 year old, stroke patient mother, this really
hit home. Mom can be difficult, at best, at times, and frustrating,
and this reminded me how much she has done for me and how blessed I am
to still have her. Thank you for putting this together. It is
beautifully done and I have shared it with many that I know that are
also caring for their elderly parents, and with some of the 'youngsters'
who will be taking up that responsibility in the not so distant
future. CE, TX"
"Amazing, and soooo
true. No one can completely understand till they have been there. I
have been there with my mother-in-law and am now repeating it with my
mother."
"I am sitting here
crying. I lost my husband and my precious mother in 2003. Mama had
said many times that she was tired and ready to go. She passed away 2
months after my husband. I thought I'd get through the loss of my
husband easier cause mama needed me, but then she left me too. This
was an awesome video, have your tissues ready while watching it.
Jill D. Kokomo, Ind."
"Absolutely
beautiful.... and so true. I am a 75 year old mother who will e-mail
this to each of my children. Thank you."
"Thank you so much
for this magnificent piece! My appreciation goes to all who created
it, and I love the fact that you used Josh Groban's wonderful music to
enrich it. We tried to support our parents in their old age, which was
difficult because we lived hundreds of miles away. The greatest
message I heard and saw here was just to love and be patient and
accepting of our parents (and other older people we know!) and try to
help them have a good lives. Wanting to end our desolation and
frustration, loneliness, and more, leaves us without much hope, which
means understanding and the acceptance of our feelings from others is
important, not a plea for assisted suicide. Thank you for this lovely
work."
"This video has moved
my heart so much – that I kept watching on and on. I have two kids –
and I've been away from them for many reasons. But looking through
this, I feel like going back to them to share all my love with them.
This wish shook me from deep inside. When they are taking their first
step, I wasn’t there. When my babies are sleeping, I wasn’t there to
read those stories. I love them so much. What am I gonna say to them
when I grow old? Thank You so much for making such a thing which
can make people like me realize what a Parent is all about. I bow to
my wife and her perseverance to take care of my kids when I m not
there – God Almighty – Help us with the Wisdom to share our Love and
Affection – THE RIGHT WAY."
"This is the most
awesome web site I have ever seen, It is so uplifting, having lost my
Mom six months ago this inspired my heart. I shared it with friends
and family, and now that I am 66 years old this is how I want to be
remembered when my health is declining. This is awesome. I have
enjoyed for four hours today. Betty Porter"
"I'm a Nurse working
in an Elderly Ward. The video made me understand my patients more
fully. Thanks to a friend who took time sending it to me. I just wish
that the children will find more time to visit their parents when they
are hospitalized as the video speaks truly of what they really feel.
And I do witness that everyday when I'm at work."
"It was very moving
and came at an appropriate time for me. My 84 year old mom and my 92
year old mom-in-law both fell on the same day. My mom broke her hip,
my mom-in-law her pelvis. My mom isn’t doing very well due to
complications, the other is as feisty as ever. For the past few weeks,
I have been feeling resentful and put upon by both of them. For the
past 2 summers, one of them has been in the hospital and I was so
looking forward to having this summer to do what I wanted to do. I was
wrong and will honor them both by being there as they were for my
family and I when, maybe, they wanted to do what THEY wanted to do.
Great job! Judy
"What an amazing
capture of a parent’s emotion and thinking. As a middle aged couple
who sat helplessly by watching my mother die from complications from
Alzheimer’s, every slide touched a nerve. It was easy to imagine the
text being spoken to us by my mom. My wife and I have sent this on to
our two children, in hopes that they will show the same love and
compassion that we showed my mom in her last months. Thank you for
such a wonderful piece."
"Thank you for this.
I am presently going through similar stuff with my 83 year old dad. I
need to be more patient with him, and beginning today, I will do just
that. I am only 49 years old, but I am sending it to my two sons
today. Everything said make sense."
"I found it very
moving. It brought tears to my eyes."
"In the name of God,
the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, thank you so much for this 'tremendous
reminder'. I cried throughout the entire message. I am currently
caring for my mother who has Dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease and although
it becomes very difficult at times, I remember the very things that
were said in this message. God bless you all and be well."
"A year ago I moved
to Florida to take care of my mother, age 85 on July 17, and this has
spoken to my heart. I am beginning this journey with my mother and can
begin to realize my children will take this journey with me someday. I
pray God will give me the strength and patience for each new day as
someday I will be here also. Thank you. I am sending it to my
children. This was sent to me by my pastor."
"This is absolutely
beautiful! In my family right now we are dealing with all of this. It
helps to realize what life is all about! Thank you so much! Katie"
"God Bless You!!!
This brought tears to my eyes and thoughts to my mind about my parents
and grandparents and how they lived and died. Awesome Story with
Awesome Background Music. Love, And Prayers, Autumn"
"I was in tears
reading this, as I have no parents left now. This is so true when our
children refuse to listen to us, or say, 'Ma!'. It is so true
about being once a man and twice a baby. This brought back the time
when my mother was hospitalized and I had to feed her. I said to my
mother, 'Mother, isn't it something that 60 years ago you fed me
and know 60 years later I am feeding you?'. Lots of things
pop into mind as I view this heart felt Parents' Wish. Outstanding
job. Sincerely, Dan Wright"
"I love the song and
I see these things happening now to my parents. Thanks for the
reminder of being more understanding to what they are going through.
Norma MacPhee"
"Thank you so very
much for such a beautiful slideshow. We just lost my father-in-law and
it sure brought back many memories. I forwarded it to everyone on my e
mail list. Carol Malina"
"This so beautiful.
The words on the page and the song really touched me. I cried the
whole time. I have two tremendous wonderful and aging parents in their
80's - God Bless them- and see all of these events transpire on a
daily patience. I just pray for more patience. God knows they deserve
it."
July 11, 2006
"As a clinical social
worker in a skilled nursing facility, this slideshow inspired me to
continue to provide quality of life for our older adult population. We
are taught to respect and provide dignity to our residents. The
comments that this slideshow is about assisted suicide are obviously
from individuals who have not experienced a family member in an end of
life stage. Often times, older adults hold on because they do not want
to see family sadness and want their family to understand it is their
time to go to whatever place that comforts them. I loved it and cried
my eyes out like many other viewers. We need to have family memories
with our parents and our children....that is the foundation to a
better society."
"Thank you. This
could not have come at a better time. It's amazing how you have no
idea how life is as an elder. You can respect 100%, but you can never
fully understand. You have helped me to realize who my Grandfather is,
for that I am grateful, and I can only hope by forwarding on this
email to my family, they too will understand!"
"Oh my wonderful God!
What a beautiful and emotional tribute. Josh Groban has such a
poignant voice. I could not stay clear eyed and listen to the
beautiful tribute form such a beautiful voice and presentation."
"This one e-mail is
worth the price of my computer. My father died over 3 years ago, and
mother is now 78. She is a lady worth the respect this e-mail suggests
for she and Daddy raised Ernie, Kristie, and me to show this kind of
love and respect to them for they showed it to us. I only hope my
children were raised to do the same. It has been sent to them. Marie
Golden Partain, Starr, SC"
"I really enjoyed
your movie. It is truly special and so true. Thank you for creating
it. We hope all children who view this will be reminded of how much
their parents gave in time and love to them.
"This is very
touching. As I have lost both my mom and dad and know the sadness and
absence of their loss, but I believe this is very much how they would
express their feelings. I used to frequently visit my grandfather in a
nursing home, and there was a sign in the elevator that read: 'As
you are, I once was. As I am, you will be.' This video holds an
important sentiment for all, but especially for the youth of today.
Thank you for putting this together and sticking with keeping it
available. Nice work!"
"My sister and I are
in-home caregivers for my mother who has Alzheimer's and cancer and is
now under hospice care. Sometimes it's very hard to see the many
changes every single day but we always find our strength in knowing
that the life of caregiver comes with many, many blessings as well.
Thank you for reminding us with this poignant slideshow. It comes at
such an appropriate time."
"Thank You. This is
beautiful and with out a doubt a message that needs to be heard. Take
the time to listen and love because our elderly took the time for us."
"A great, great
presentation - loved it and passed it along to our four children.
Thanks for sharing with so many others."
"This was a very
beautiful video. It brought tears streaming down my cheeks and should
to anyone who has compassion in their hearts. I do feel there is a
hint of allowing euthanasia, which I disagree with. We leave this life
when God knows it is time for us to leave. Also, where is MOM in this
video?? Many of the scenes only show Dad. The music is wonderful, as
is the voice of the artist who sings it."
[Webmaster's note: The
slideshow was an adaptation of a powerpoint presentation entitled
'Tribute to Dad'. The photos used in the slideshow came from that
powerpoint presentation which explains why there are more Father's
photos]
"What an awesome
thing I have just watched. Tears flowing down my cheeks, some tears of
sadness because I no longer have my dad, but tears of joy also
remembering all of those wonderful times, and saddened when I didn't
really pay attention. Thank you ParentsWish.com for this eye-opening
message. I pray this will reach thousands."
"This is the most
beautiful slideshow I have ever received, my son-in-law sent it to me.
I have it on my my favorites to view often. It's a real tear-jerker.
Virginia in Ganado,Texas"
"We have shown it
from each other's e-mail and it has been so very well received by
staff at our nursing facility."
"Thank you so much.
What beautiful and suitable music to an awesome display of the truths
of life! Marie (an aging parent)"
"Thank you for this
wonderful piece. It brought back many memories. I helped care for my
Grandmother and Mother. I am now taking care of my Father. Someday I
hope my children will do the same for me. God Bless!"
"This is the most
beautiful email I ever got, THANK YOU for it. Dave Schultz"
"My mom sent me this
and I cried the whole way through."
"My mother lives with
me now that she's older This really made me stop and think about all
she's done for me and now it's my turn to take care of her. Thank you
for a beautiful reminder."
"Thanks a lot! You
did an excellent job of putting the perfect thoughts and feelings into
the website show presentation. You just gave another reason for
'PROUD TO BE PINOY!'
"This was GREAT. I
just loved it. Wish my parents were still alive and I had read this. I
have sent this onto my children. It is so very touching. Thanks for
making this. Karen Tankersley"
"WOW! How touching.
Thank you for taking the time to put our sentiments to video. Josh
Groban's song was sooooooo appropriate. This is a perfect song for a
retirement ceremony or appreciations service. Thanks again. I will
definitely buy that song."
"When I read email
stories that are heartwarming, it fills my heart with tears but
reading this brought real tears flowing. My mother (84) lives with me
and oftentimes I am impatient with her repetitive remarks about
stories of the past. I've learned through this to listen and listen
well. I will learn to appreciate all that she is and does for she is
legally blind. I am thankful that she tries to do things on her own.
Thank you very much."
"I was so touched by
this. My father had recently passed away and this brought back
memories of his last few months. It is so true, what this poem says,
that everyone young and older should have a chance to read it. My
father, although he was not visibly aware, knew that he was loved. He
is now at peace and still has love. The music in the background was
just so perfect. I would like to thank you for both. May all who read
and hear your message.. REALLY HEAR IT.. Thank you and may God Bless
You for giving me this."
"Thank you for a
beautiful, wonderful, and inspiring video! I have to tell you, it
could not have come to me and my family at a better time. We were
caring for my mother after a stroke, and it was a very hard time for
us, and viewing this video really helped us to get through it all. We
lost my mother on June 26, 2006 but she was a beautiful, very strong,
lady. I think every family should view this and use it as well. I have
forwarded it to everyone I know. Jg..Oregon"
July 10, 2006
"I have lost both of
my parents in the last 13 years, it seems like a lifetime but feels
like yesterday. The story, the words of the song and the graphics in
this website brought me to tears. We were three adults that buried
their parents, but just a little over six months ago, my brother and I
lost out baby Sister. They were twins only 48. I tried to make sense
our of her dying but not until I watched this did I truly understand.
It's just an absolutely wonderful site. Thank you and the person that
created it."
"This is wonderful
with a message that all should read. The music is beautiful and a
great message for everyone to receive. Oualline in College Station,
Texas 77840."
"May I commend you on
this Beautiful Web site. I was so pleased to receive it from a dear
friend. Your work on this page was well done, May the Lord Bless you
for sharing with so many. God Bless you and Yours."
"It's weird that I
see this beautiful slideshow now. On Dec. 21 my Grandmother died (my
dad's mom) and before she died she told one of her closest friends
that she was ready to go. When we buried her on Dec 24 I thought a lot
about that. It makes you realize how important parents really are even
after your grown with your own kids."
"Thank you so much
for this slide show. I am a registered nurse and this touched me
greatly. I have worked for many years with the elderly to include
caring for them at the end of their lives. I forwarded this to all of
my nurse friends and they all were moved."
"This is the most
beautiful video that I have ever seen. Thank you."
"Thank you. This was
so moving that it stayed with me days after viewing it and I couldn’t
stop crying. It is beautiful and is so true to the circle of life and
death."
"What can I say other
than - THANK YOU - so very much for giving me the words I can show to
my children so they will be able to respectfully allow me to grow old
and leave with world with grace and loving contentment and
satisfaction. From Australia with love from a very grateful Mum and
Dad"
"Touching and
wonderful. Others have said it quite well. I think it also needs to be
used in schools to attempt to get reality, compassion, and human needs
back on track in this present throw away self important/centralized
culture. If it's not already too late."
"I find that I get
caught up in emotional storytelling and emotional issues quite easily.
But I'm sorry to say this thing just doesn't do it for me. I love my
parents to no end, and will of course care for them when they need it.
But I'm of the opinion that one can create beauty and approach a
difficult, often overlooked issue without bashing people over the head
with it with the old schmaltz stick (there's more effective, real,
less tacky ways of doing it). -v.v."
"A friend sent me
this link to your website and I was very touched. Thank you so much
for your effort and thoughtfulness."
"Thank you so much
for sharing this beautiful and touching piece with all of us. For
anyone who has lost a parent, it is very comforting and for all of us
with children, it a perfect way to tell them how much we love them.
Thank you."
"This is the most
beautiful thing that I have seen done in a very long time. It says
what needs to be said to the younger people so that they will think
twice about being upset or mean to the older people. Thank you for
this site. Bonnie in Laketon, IN"
"Loved the slideshow-
yet I hesitated sending it to my own kids because of the ending: 'Help
us to end our way with love and dignity.', I read in the FAQ
that it doesn’t mean assisted suicide, or supporting the right to die
movement etc. and for that I’m glad. Yet because it sure SEEMS to, and
that’s what I thought when I read it before reading the FAQ- I
couldn’t pass it on to either my children or my friends, because that
goes against my morals and values. Please consider redoing the end so
that the intent is more clear. Other than that it is AWESOME!"
[Webmaster's note:
Due to numerous requests about the phrase you mentioned, we have
edited that phrase last July 12, 2006. It now reads: 'Help us to live
the rest of our life with love and dignity.']
"My son sent this to
me and I think it is one of the most moving and heartfelt things I
have received. Thank you."
"I was very touched
by this. My mother has been in a very severe accident in Feb. of this
year, resulting in severe head and brain trauma. These last few months
have taught me a lot - having fed my Mom, washed her, changed her
diaper, taking her out in strolls to the park in her wheelchair. Just
the smallest smile from her is all the payment that you'll ever need.
It's amazing what all love will conquer!"
"That was the most
wonderful thing the way you put that song to those words. So very
fitting. The first time I ever heard that song by Josh Groban, I was
decorating my Christmas tree in Dec 2002. My Father had passed away
just 2 short months before. The words to that song made me stop what I
was doing and sit down and listen. It made me think so much about my
Father and the thought of having our first Christmas without him.
What a wonderful song!"
"I just recently lost
my Father to Lung Cancer, and absolutely everything on this slideshow
pertains to his last days."
"I look at this at
least every 2 or 3 days and each time it brings tears to my eyes. My
father is now 87 years old and we are both experiencing some of these
writings and we are learning to love and respect each other on another
level. My father actually told me to just allow him to tell his story
again because I told him, 'daddy you know you tell the same story
over and over about your childhood.' And my father said, 'just
let me tell my story.' My dad is now in the hospital and I wish he
were here to tell me his story again."
"Thank you so much
for understanding the family and the aging process. You have nailed it
exactly! We have raised two very special sons and we have walk the
last walk with our parents and laughed and cried. Love covers many
flaws. Again thank you for putting together this video! Lorna"
"I can't imagine
sending this to my two sons. I am 79, i lost my husband last year, and
my two sons lost a father. This is maudlin, whiney, and demeaning to
people growing old. My own parents went through some of the problems,
but they wouldn't have wanted all the blatant emotionalism in this
piece. I have offended the friend who sent it to me by saying the same
things to her. I feel very strongly about this. I am probably one of
the few who feel this way that will send a response, but I am sure
there are others."
"This is absolutely
awesome! Beautiful music, with loving words to our families. Thank
you!"
"You probably get
tons of these emails but I had to add mine. I just wanted to say THANK
YOU for a very nice and truthful slide show. Helps to keep life in
perspective!"
"Beautifully put
together. Right now I am again going thru some really rough waters
with one of my children and I shall send this, hoping against hope,
that some part may get thru to a very selfish and self-centered child
who believes themselves to be the only person who is right and who is
raising the children in the right way. This is uplifting and
inspiring. Some years ago my Mom suffered from Alzheimer's and this
means a lot. Nancy"
"I am caring for one
93 year old at home and one in a nursing home – I know how true this
is – I wish you could send it to every nursing home director for the
inspiration needed to do their daily sometimes difficult work."
"Thank you so much
for your effort to make this slideshow viewable to so many. It was
sent to me the day of a birthday party we were having for my elderly
mom '94'. It is both uplifting and sad; the people who were so
instrumental in our growth now need us to help."
"Absolutely awesome.
I wish all teenagers would read and allow this message to touch their
hearts now instead of later. It is a beautiful way to remind us of the
circle of life and remind us to pay back what we have received. Thank
you! L. Smith KY"
"This is so beautiful
and full of simple meaning, if only we could relay this to our parents
gone before us, hopefully my children might think about the sentiment
here and how it relates to us – my wife Anne and I . God Bless"
"I lost my Dad to
cancer in March and was lucky to have been with him and my mom as he
looked up at us and died peacefully. I think back on the times when he
was healthy and full of life and keep those times most prominent in my
mind. He gave so much of himself to keep his family happy and strong
and watching him wither and fade was difficult. The strength I had
through his most trying times came crashing when I saw this video. I
am a stronger person having taken care of my dad because I know he
continues to watch over me daily as I help my mom through her grief."
"An outstanding
delivery of very important emotions and thoughts. I was deeply moved
and amazed that so much of my personal thoughts were reflected. Thank
you. I have forwarded to others!"
"This is the BEST
site I have ever seen! Do you have any others like this? This is just
Beautiful! Please continue the wonderful work you do! May God bless
you and allow you to continue the wonderful job you are doing! Diane"
"Thank you very much
for sharing this wonderful message of love. I Thank you for this
opportunity in letting my eyes and heart be opened all the more, that
there my parents are the once who need our care, attention and love. I
thank you for letting me see the reality that indeed my parents are
instruments of why and I am today. Please give us more of this. It's
really very inspiring. I now feel the reality, that even I shed blood,
I cannot repay the sacrifices that my parents had for me.
Dr.Jovic Aguipo, Philippines
"That is the most
beautiful and inspiring song and words that I have ever read. I love
it and I shared it to all in my address book, especially to my sons
and daughter-in-laws! That was absolutely beautiful and I would love
more of these special email if and when you get them. I would
appreciate it greatly. Thank you so much, it touched my heart greatly.
Sincerely, Lana R. Arnell"
"I lost my mother
today after a 4 month battle with cancer. She was my best friend, my
mentor, and the most beautiful person I’ve ever known. I was sent this
link a few days before she died and after watching it, realized that
my mother had once again given me a gift. The gift of love from a
parent to a child and then back again as the parent became the child.
I plan on using this in her Memorial Service as I know it will touch
the hearts of many as it has touched mine. Thank you. Tim R."
"This was wonderful.
My parents have died six and four years ago, but the times that I took
care of them still remains. I also work in an elderly assisted living
facility and watch the dynamics that go on between the parents and the
child--the grown up child--and then hear what the parent says when
their adult children live. I can see now that I did many things right.
But also, some things wrong. I wish many more people could see this
and hear this. It is amazing and so true. Dena"
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