My youngest sister Margaret was diagnosed with an advanced throat cancer several years ago and died last Fall, leaving a big hole in my universe. Learning to live with that hole has been a challenge. Part of me doesn’t want to accept a world without her in it.

Writing has always been an important tool for me, so I wrote something for her memorial. My piece contains echoes from Robert Frost, e.e. cummings, and an Apache blessing. Both writing it and sharing it have given me considerable comfort.

For Margaret: Absens, sed non oblitus

Now, you will feel no pain,

For you will be in a peaceful place.

Now, you will feel no fear,

For you will be in a safe place.

Now, you will feel no loneliness,

For we will carry your heart in our hearts.

We who are still here will bear witness

To the wholeness, joy, and beauty you brought us.

We are sad that you have moved beyond,

But we are glad for the gift of knowing you.

Now you are beyond both time and place

For we remember and honor your spirit.