My sister just called me from NY. She flew up there last night to try to get to see our aunt. She said she had an excellent flight on Blue, but ultimately was too late. My aunt passed last night, about 20 minutes before my sister could get there. I didn't talk to my mom because she was laying down and resting and my grandmother just relayed an "I love you" through my sister. I told my sister that if my mom wants to call me later, she can, but doesn't have to.

Wow. It's just so weird. I haven't been up to NY in quite some time and it's been a few years since my aunt's been down here. It's strange to think I'll never see her again. It's weird to think that my mom is only one of five children now, not six. It's just weird to think of her as not being there. My sister said being up there and getting to the hospital - even if it was too late - really made it "real" for her. I can imagine. It doesn't feel quite real to me. I've cried a bit, but it's more because there seems to be a hole in the family now. I think my aunt is at peace and such, but... it's just strange her not being there.

Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there, I do not sleep

I am a thousand winds that blow
I am the diamond glints on snow

I am the sunlight on ripened grain
I am the gentle autumn's rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift, uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there, I did not die.

-Mary E.Frye 1932

That's all for now. More later perhaps.

~ flowers bloom near Memory and Dream at 11/27/2002 03:06:33 PM ~ ~