For Aunt Dorothy.

To think about all of the "what ifs?"
To think about everything that could have been said.
To ask the question why? Over and over again.

To do any of that would be to waste time.

To think about all of the memories.
To think about all of the smiles.
To think about all of the laughter that was shared.

That would be time well-wasted.

Yes you're gone but you're memory still lives on.
To forget anything about you would be nearly impossible.
You're still very much alive in each and everyone of us.

Your presence was a spark that could ignite much more than a single flame, but instead a whole forest fire.

Yesterday we searched for you. Called out your name.
Today we cry for you. Because we are in pain.
Tomorrow we smile for you because we know you are safe.

A heart heavy with the pain of seeing loved-ones so distraught.
Mine.

A heart I know will heal in time.
Mine.

A heart that will always carry your love and one of a kindness.
My stepmother's. Your children. Your friends. Your family. Mine.

You've left a little piece of you in all of us.
We'll make it through.
Just this time it'll have to be without you.

Rest in Paradise. You will forever be loved.