by Jane Coryell

Created on: October 01, 2008   Last Updated: November 04, 2008

He has traveled the journey of life with me. From the time I was a babe in a crib to my current life at 52, my teddy bear, "Bru Bear", is still with me. In many ways, he is a survivor, just like me. He has survived a toddler's play, many years of moving, being packed away in storage, and the decision on whether to keep or toss.

He is a handsome bear, black and white, with a steel button nose. No tears to speak of and his ears are still strongly attached! He has held up well for his 50 years. I am sure he would rate high in the collector's world but he is not for sale. He has earned a prominent place in my home, where I can easily reach out for him when needed.

A black and white photograph from long ago shows me as a small child, holding him tight while napping away peacefully. I must have been not quite two when he was introduced into my life. I am sure that he helped me through my many bruises and disciplinary measures. He was mine exclusively and in a house of seven children, that was no small feat. I'm not even sure how I acquired him, it just seems he has always been a presence in my life.

Like an old friend, he was there when I got my heart broken as a teenager, walked down the aisle to join my hand in marriage, and when I cried inconsolably over the loss of my first child. I thought I saw a smile when I, as a new mother, joyfully walked through the door with my firstborn daughter. When I came home from court, still feeling numb from my divorce, he was there. I clung to him like the child I once was, finding, once again, consolation that only he could bring me.

Bru Bear is a great listener and is the best confidant. My secrets are safe with him. He is as good as a best friend and non-judgmental too. He never tires of sitting beside me, never finds me dull and boring and never disagrees!

I find myself still turning to him for comfort. From the clutches of my two baby hands, oh so many years ago, Bru Bear has progressed through life with me. He has been there through thick and thin, seen all of my ups and downs. He has been there for the best and worst of my life. Just as I clung to him when I was a little girl, I depend on him now to bring me solace when life gets too much to bear.

My past and present connect through this teddy bear. I'm not sure where life will take him when mine ends, but possibly another little girl will begin hugging him the way I once did. And maybe Bru Bear will have another life to share.

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