Unconditional: A Loving Tribute

I have always had a love and talent for writing. I've written quite a bit over the years, but am happy to say that I am finally working towards publishing my first children's book!

A little back story to the inspiration behind my first book:

Within about five years, I lost two people who played instrumental roles in my life from the moment I was born (really before that, even). In 2018, I lost my uncle and in 2023, I lost my dad. Both were younger than they should have been when they passed. Each loss was a punch to the gut, and left my life with voids no one and nothing could fill.

Though both my uncle and my father had their lives cut short, the impact they left on myself, my brother, cousins and people in their communities is profound. I was told each time how good of friends they were to those around them, how they loved their children, and how significant a loss this was to so many.

My uncle and dad were great at being just that, uncles and dads. My Uncle Dan and my dad showed their children, nieces and nephews nothing but unconditional love. There was no sacrifice too great for them to make, nothing they wouldn't do to make the children in their family happy. While we're terribly unlucky to have lost two pillars of our family, we are so fortunate to have experienced love so great as we did. True, unconditional love.

In honoring both my dad and my uncle, I am hoping to publish my children's book, which would also pay homage to my son. My son and my dad had a few short days on this earth together. I want to make sure my son always knows that his grandfather, Bello, and great Uncle Dan love him, regardless of where they may be physically. They will always be a part of his life and who he is. This story is just one small way to connect them.

Unconditional: A Never Ending Love is a story about a little boy named Sonny. One day, he receives a visit from a cardinal and a blue jay, Bello and Daniel, who come to teach Sonny what unconditional love is, and how it transcends time, place and physicality. This sweet story not only teaches children what unconditional love is, but can help children cope with grief, should they experience the tragedy of losing a loved one at a young age.

I can't wait to bring this story to life and flip through the pages with my son. I hope he'll love reading about the wonderful adventure he takes with his grandfather and great uncle, who leave him with the message that they'll always be there, guiding him with their love throughout his life.

Originally published by Anne Reboa on Vocal.media.