Why can't we rename or build a memorial park so these children's spirits can live on with the joy and happiness of other children playing and having fun? Why keep their spirits imprisoned on a bridge that is nothing more to them than a crime scene. I would never be a part of doing that to them......This would honor All Angels..........
As I have said before, the mother's wishes should come first. If she likes the idea of a park,as opposed to a sign on the bridge that says Four Angels Bridge I am all for it. Or if she prefers nothing at all, we should all honor that as well. True, other children would enjoy a park, but not hers. True, the bridge is a "crime scene," but also the place where they last were(or so we think at this point). Most memorials, are at the place of death. I know that you said on an earlier post that your child and other family members memorial was at their gravesite, Bobcat. Perhaps that is what was right for you. I am truly sorry for your loss. As for me, when my dad was run over by a tractor in July of 2006, we chose to plant a tree and place a bench there, to sit and reflect. As to the children's spirit(soul) that is with Jesus, not the bridge, not a park, not a fountain or any other memorial. The bridge is simply one way to remind us and remember them. How would Chris Mason's family have felt if there was all this argument and negativity when the bridge by Bel Air Mall was named in his honor a few months ago. Or as I mentioned earlier, the street and church that were named after the four girls killed in the bombing in Birmingham. I think we can agree to disagree, but I think everyone really needs to think first and foremost about the FAMILY.
Krickkett............ You are very welcome.............. I would think these children's memories would like to be OFF that bridge and in a "happy place". I believe this issue will be rethought. Good luck to you and God bless our children.
What I was saying, is that our family chose to do a memorial at the site of my father's death. I know his soul is not there-it is with Jesus. When this happened, my parents were in the process of building their dream house, to retire in and enjoy the rest of their days. They had decided to sell it because of delays on getting it completed had sky-rocketed the final cost. My dad borrowed my husband's tractor to do some yard work in preparation for an open house the next day. My mom had gone to the Dollar General to get a mop, to finish cleaning the inside, and was gone maybe 20 minutes. When she got back(with two of my daughters that were helping her), they found my dad under the wheel of tractor, already dead. Mom decided not to sell the house. It just helps her to have this "special" place to be where my dad died. Just as it works for you to have your memorial at the gravesite. I hope that makes sense, and clears up any contradiction. I just think memorials should be at the place where it occurred-ie...all the crosses on the side of the road.
I do not want anyone to think it is my way or no way. I am arguing for this only because I think it was a beautiful gesture that someone else came up with, and seemed fitting. The only opinion that should really matter to any of us is that of the mother. If she wants a park, I support it 100%. If she wants a fountain or statues, I support that. By making the contacts that I did, it was simply to get the ball rolling to give her an opportunity to have this memorial. It doesn't mean it has to be the only memorial. I gave my opinion about the park simply as a mother's perspective, that if I lost my kids, it would hurt so much to see other children playing where mine never would. Perhaps, this is what she feels will be best. I think all decisions need to be hers-when the time is right.
I hope all this bickering and negativity can stop. We need to remember that EVERYONE's efforts are about the children. And you are right, it will be OK.
Check the guidelines and protocol of renaming county, state federal hwys, roads or bridges and see how complex-ed this process would be. Time and tax payers money would be substantial.
There is a waterfront park at the bridge in Bayou la Batre that is really pretty. As the babies were children of the bayou and in death they have all been returned to the bayou as they were found, that is is fitting that a memorial be placed in the park for them. Henry Barnes a local councilman there has suggested this also. Maybe having a place to reflect on their short lives and their wonderful smiles that it will inspire us to help others. On another note, the sheriff's department has asked all property owners to check their waterfronts, last weekend we walked marshes. So for those who are able, go out tomorrow and walk the marshes.
The Coden Park overlooking the Mississippi Sound Should be Renamed 4 Angel Park and should the other baby girl not be located a torch such as on JFK's grave should be placed to show baby Hannah the way home.
