I’m not going to speak about the Santa Maria tragedy. If you are looking for something interesting to read about that event, take a look at this blog post by Cris Cardoso. I have learned a lot from her.

Today, I am going to talk about something that no one likes to talk about, but is present in most families – and it’s with these people that I am speaking to.

You may not be one of the mothers affected by the tragedy, but you have gotten used to it. Your child may not be physically dead, but his life has been ruined for a long time.

The fear of losing him, the embarrassment of the constant disrespect, the agony of trying to keep the appearance of a happy family, having to adapt to each new addiction, craze, disorder, bad friendships… You are trapped inside your own home, inside yourself, because you know that your walls may collapse at any moment. I’m talking to you.

Mothers who weep because their hearts are overwhelmed by despair and powerlessness. Their souls cry out for help that never comes.

The flames are not visible, but you see them consuming and turning the dreams that grew with your belly and were registered in childhood pictures, turn into ashes. Today, all of those plans seem so distant… Your strength is running out, there seems to be no comfort, no one seems to care.

However, this outcry is not only yours, it is also in my throat, and in the throat of millions of other people. There is only one way to overcome the fear that your child may die: face death. There is only one God who overcame death – Jesus.

I’m not talking about religion. I’m talking about life, and saving your family.

Many people throughout the country were moved by the victims of Santa Maria. Let’s do something about those who are still alive.

You have seven days to do something.

We are going to have a worldwide Campaign for the Salvation of the Family (click here to learn more about it).

It will be seven days of battle, in favor of a promise that is real, that will be fulfilled.

Unfortunately, many will be paying for a 7th day Mass.

You may not be a mother, or your family may already saved, but I’m sure that you know someone who isn’t.

Spread, invite, fight.

I’m going to make a vow for my daughter.

Patricia Barbosa