This blog is dedicated to my sister, Darlene who passed away 32 years ago (April 19, 1979) at the age of 15.  It is hard to fathom that Dar has been dead more than twice as long as she lived.  She was such a vibrant being and a gifted writer, even at such a young age.  I have attempted to allow her spirit to live through me, if such is possible.  Dar wrote the following quote about me (it is in a frame in our lobby) and it has become somewhat of a mantra for me, even during inevitable change:

"My sister, Lorri, always reminds me of concern and love.  She feels that we should be working on New Beginnings, instead of reaching endings" 

May all of you who have lost a "Dear One" somehow find some sense of healing in this writing!

So Long to a Dear One

 When someone passes through to Heaven, someone so truly dear to our heart and soul, the depth of pain cannot be given words.  When this someone is young and vibrant, that depth somehow seems even more cutting.  We definitely find ourselves asking, "Why"?!  We find ourselves questioning God and our faith seems shattered. 

Then, life continues and the proverbial saying, "Time heals all wounds" lends some truth to our pain as it begins to wane, or at least loses some of its depth. 

As we find our way out of the depression and begin to remember the beauty, humor and vibrancy of the one who has passed, we find a way to feel their Spirit and know that they are with us, guiding us and loving us. 

We find a way to be happy for their soul as they reside in Heaven. 

And our Faith returns as we know that we will someday, meet again!

May we all find a way to believe that the passing of a "Dear One" does not mean "Goodbye", but rather "So-Long" and until then, may we live to our fullest extent with the light of our Guardian Angel leading the way!

Peace, Love and Joy (via my mom, who somehow made it through the rain),

Dr Lorri