My thoughts are in Colorado today, remembering and feeling appreciative of a quick-as-a-whip, no-nonsense, gracious, and game-for-adventure lady who occupied a special familial role in my sister's life. She and Carolyn shared a unique and intimate connection that transcended their neighborly status. They shared the daily rhythms of the children's activities, special events such as a recent roller derby outing, and (over the last 18 months) the debilitating and depressing routine of chemo, doctors' appointments, and medical tests. Yes, Carolyn was there for her... but over the years she was there for Carolyn - a motherly figure ready with opinions and hands-on support and laughter - and for that I am profoundly grateful.
This morning, this strong woman succumbed to the cancer which had reappeared only one month ago. She had faced her relapse with unflagging grace and tremendous faith. I am so terribly sad. Sad for my sister's dear friend and for her sons and grandchildren, aching for my sister and her children and their loss of such a force and touchstone in their lives, and yet tremendously grateful that this relationship existed - exists! Family can be found anywhere if a bond is sparked and hearts are open. Family can be found in the light shining through a front window in the house across the street. Family bonds can be forged by shoveling walks, putting newspapers on the front stoop, checking to see if you went to your college class when you spy a car in the driveway, and being available at the drop of a hat for dinners, errands, activities, and company. Family means running to an open pharmacy at 3 a.m., cuddling in hospital beds, and holding a hand in hospice. Family is where you make it. Family is to be celebrated and treasured. Thank you, Mary. Thank you for being family to my sister. She needs you.
