A Tribute to Lost Loved Ones

One year ago today we lost my mother-in-law. Today I am remembering the lessons she taught me and reflecting on all that she stood for. She was a pillar of service and strength. Although she suffered most of her life from a chronic illness, Marsha served whenever and however she could. When she could no longer be present at Auxillary meetings or help at the church, she sent money and asked the groups she was part of what they needed and found a way to provide it. She sent us cards on every birthday and holiday to ensure we knew that she was thinking of us and cared about us.

Even when she was in extreme pain she made her way to the kitchen table or into the living room to have a conversation about what was happening in our lives. She was very special and we miss her physical presence everyday. At the same time we have found new ways to include her in our life and carry her with us.

That’s what we do. Life goes on, we continue to move forward. We can choose to bring our lost loved ones with us by including them in our thoughts and prayers, talking with them, doing special things to celebrate their life on significant days. We can also bring them with us on our life journey by considering what they taught us, what they stood for and how we can carry that legacy forward. Their spirit and the impact they have had on us is something we will always have and is a way we can remain connected and contribute to the world on their behalf.

Because I admired Marsha’s strength and service-orientation, I think about how I can carry that forward on her behalf in real ways. I can choose to show love and maybe even evoke a laugh in the middle of a challenging situation. I can reach out and ask people how they are doing and write a handwritten note. I can be intentional about how I want to serve my community and my church, and make those activities a priority. Each time I engage in those behaviors and activities, I think of Marsha, I thank her, and I send her love. We remain connected to each other in that way, I can feel her smiling down, and that eases the pain and the grief a little.

We love you Marsha! We miss you, we are grateful for all you have taught us and brought into our lives, and we know you will always be with us!