In Loving Memory

This morning I got the news that my beloved cousin Marie passed on to be with Jesus. She had fought through cancer for over a year now, so it is with mixed feelings that I think of her homecoming. On the one hand, my heart is heavy with sadness for the passing of such a sweet, beautiful person who was smart, kind, funny, lovely, and such a bright spot of joy in our family. On the other hand, I am so happy that the end of her suffering has come and that she will never again feel pain.

Over 7 years ago, when I was going through my own journey with cancer, Marie sent me a beautiful necklace that I am wearing today in her memory. It is a star made up of sparkling rhinestones. She told me that I was a star in our family and sent it to me while I was going through chemo. I remember it just absolutely made my day! I got to go out so little during chemo, and getting a fun package with a pretty, sparkly thing just made me light up all over! I wear that star often and always think of Marie when I do.

Today, though, I can’t help but think how it was Marie who was the true star. She lived her life with grace, love, humor, and strength. She was a wonderful woman full of beauty and elegance. I will miss her so much. I look forward to the day when I see her again, and until then, I’ll wear my star in honor of the beautiful person that she was.

Me (far right) and Marie (center) in 2001