Life Goes On

Just when I think things are starting to get back to normal after the hurricane - four months ago - another setback comes.

It was only in November that we buried my mother-in-law, and last Thursday we buried my oldest brother. I knew it was coming, he had been terribly ill with all sorts of problems (kidney stones so bad he needed a kidney transplant, diabetes and leukemia (that prevented the transplant) but ultimately it was the rare Endocarditis that took him), but it was still quite a blow. It also didn't help that I found out after my husband had left on a business trip, so I had to go help my parents make the funeral arrangements.

I was so proud of myself, I was the strong one, making decisions when my parents couldn't, but as soon as my husband arrived, I turned to mush. Funny how much we come to depend on our spouses for support.

Though my mother won't admit it now, my brother is in a much better place where there is no pain. Hopefully, in his next life, he'll be stronger.

Life is too short, too precious. So, make the most of it while you can. Hold onto love, do stop and smell the roses, and reach for your dreams, because there might not be a tomorrow.

I miss you, Mark. See you soon.