Greetings!

This past week has really been hard for me and my family. My oldest sister, Viola, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She had been struggling since an aneurism burst in her head back in January. But, today I don’t want to talk about her life, because her living has done that. She left a legacy of good works that will live on in the hearts of all the people she touched for years and years to come. What I really wanted to share with you was the strength and dignity in which my family came together…it was amazing.

When my sister first became ill it was devastating watching her lay there so helpless, but for five months there was someone at her bedside every day. My family pulled together to make sure my sister would be taken care of properly. Viola has two sons, Benjamin and Timothy. They made sure that the hospice she was moved to not only knew they would be there, but that they were not going to settle for less than the best for their mother. To say I was proud of them is an understatement. They did everything possible to give my sister a fighting chance, and I will always love them for that.

The thing that really impressed me was that my entire family worked together…and was on one accord through the whole process. It was awesome. That may not sound like much to most people, but my family has some very strong and opinionated people, and they have no problem letting you know how they feel about any and everything. But, not this time. When she took her last breath, it was like she just drifted off to sleep…it was so peaceful. We may not have been there when she took her first breath, but God allowed us all to be present for her last…and it was so sweet. I will never forget it. I think that may be why we couldn’t fight about anything. God had given us such a gift…no one wanted to ruin it.

I am overwhelmed, overjoyed, and overcome with gratitude and love for the family members who supported my nephews and their families during this time. My prayer is that my family will become even stronger; that we will be even more determined to keep our family close; that we will love each other hard, and that we will continue to be there for one another…no matter what.

Until next time…

Be blessed.