In
a strange way, I consider myself lucky that I was able to be present, say
goodbye, and prepare a bit for my sister's death. Many do not get that chance
if the death is sudden or unexpected. My memories of the day and week of
my sister's death shine vividly in my mind's eye and as the anniversary
approaches, I struggled to put words to my thoughts and emotions. The
first few years after she died, I tried to turn the thoughts off, however as
the years have gone by, I have come to see these memories as sacred. I
have learned that life can be both painful and beautiful at the same time.