by Marie Sumnicht | Feb 7, 2023 | Motivation, Reflections
People often commented on how “strong” I was in the months following my daughter’s death. Just weeks after Julia died, one of the cards I received was from a woman who wrote that I was going to be “such a testimony”. I stared at her words in disbelief and anger....
by Marie Sumnicht | Feb 20, 2022 | Uncategorized
The Last Birkie: The Impact of One Man’s Journey Marie Sumnicht Editor’s Note: Marie Sumnicht, the third child of six born to John and Wendy McKenzie, married to Dan, is a mother of four children and grandmother of three. An educator, entrepreneur,...
by marieparkssumnicht | Aug 16, 2020 | Motivation, Reflections
I’m back! Sorry for the delay. I started writing many times on various topics, always struggling with which one to complete. I decided to share today’s reflection because I believe it can help others through the challenges we are facing in America. After...
by marieparkssumnicht | Apr 19, 2020 | Uncategorized
“Seek Justice. Ensure Victims’ Rights. Inspire Hope.” This is the slogan of this year’s 2020 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Has a nice ring, doesn’t it? But for someone like me, these words are hollow, written to appease the victims. It’s like the Pledge of...
by marieparkssumnicht | Apr 16, 2020 | Interviews, Reflections
To hear my recent podcast interview, follow this link: https://soundcloud.com/user-844114290/living-again-after-loss-or-trauma
by marieparkssumnicht | Apr 16, 2020 | Reflections
Dreams Unfulfilled? As soon as I saw the wall hanging with the image of the cross covered in seashells and sand, I knew I had to buy it. For me, it represented Julia’s perfect life in heaven – walking along a beach lined with beautifully colored stones and...
by marieparkssumnicht | Jul 12, 2019 | Motivation, Reflections
Marie’s Reflections There’s a Christian band called “I am they”. I thought the title rather strange until its meaning was explained. The band understood that our lives are really about others, not about “self”. But we live in a very “self” centered world that clamors...
by marieparkssumnicht | Jun 17, 2019 | Uncategorized
Case closed! Or is it? This will be my last post on my daughter’s death investigation. Unless a miracle happens in my lifetime, her final justice will be in heaven. If you are interested in the last turn of events, please read on. On Wednesday, June 12, 2019, I...
by marieparkssumnicht | Feb 19, 2019 | Motivation
Marie’s Reflections How many of you reading this are feeling hopeless? Like there’s nothing that will ever change the way you feel, unless your child was alive and with you? Or, if you could go back and “undo” all the “mistakes” you think or know you made? I want you...
by marieparkssumnicht | Feb 10, 2019 | Exercise, Family, Motivation, Reflections
Marie’s Reflections Intentional living often equals discomfort. I’ve experienced over time that the only way to real personal growth is to stretch yourself. As human beings, most of us have traits and emotions that can block us from growing towards our potential...
