Missing

In the event that a child runs away or in some other manner goes missing, it is very important to act quickly.  This whole process can be daunting.  Contact local law enforcement immediately.  Know the laws, because information provided to parents varies from agency to agency, and even from officer to officer.  The first time my daughter ran away, I had a pro-active detective who kept in contact with me and I felt actually helped.  Maybe he didn't, but as an anxious parent, feeling supported made a huge difference in my coping.

It is so important to know resources.  Missing children and runaways can also be reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.  As a parent, having support is vital to surviving the unknown.  So often, we want to remain private, not to divulge too much information out of embarrassment  or fear of how others will react; however, having support contributes to positive coping.  I am finding it so difficult to focus, and knowing I have friends praying for me, ready and willing to listen has helped calm me.  Even if it is 2 a.m., the NCMEC has a 24 hour hotline.

More than anything, I just want to see my daughter's beautiful face.  I need to hear her voice, watch her smile.  The not knowing is devastating.  I wish I could say I never thought this would happen to my family, but as a child, I watched similar situations with my siblings, and as my ex-husband's paranoia heightened, he would often disappear for several days, sending me in complete panic juggling all the uncertains.  I just wanted so much more for my own children.  I know all parents want more.