It’s been so long since I talked to you or wrote you a text. I miss our daily banter so very much. These days we are getting ready to say good bye to another precious member of our family. Dad is failing fast and it is simultaneously heartwarming and heartbreaking to see our parents love on each other in the only ways they have left to them. For 60 years they have cared for and relied on each other. They don’t know how to live any other way.

I always thought you would be here with Jocelyn and me to navigate through this time of loving and loss and I miss you so much. I don’t know if this would be easier with you here but I know it would be different; we would be sharing the load and weeping together. Jocelyn and I are a good team. We are making it all work but we still miss our big sister so much.

Today I was wondering how this all looks from your side of the veil. Knowing what you know, is it still sad to watch our parents torn from each other after walking through all the seasons of life hand in hand? Or does your perspective cause the joy ahead to obliterate the present tears?

If God permits you a window on our lives, you know that Dad may join you any day. Are you rolling out the red carpet? Making perogies, orange jelly salad and all his other favourites? Are you preparing to spend the best Father’s Day ever with Dad?

What a joy it will be for you to hear him whistle a happy tune again, throw little children up in the air while he laughs that big laugh I havn’t heard for so long, and play tennis. Hey, in heaven, maybe even you are athletic enough to play with him!

I am so thankful for these beautiful thoughts. And that we don’t grieve, in the Apostle Paul’s words, “as those who have no hope”.  

Give Papa a big kiss for me on Father’s Day and I’ll hold Mom for you. I love you so much!

Your Adoring Sister,

Donna