Iyoo, at exactly 8:29pm on November 6, 2015, you boarded that one way flight to the great beyond. We knew it was coming as you had been terminally sick for almost four years, yet the shock and pain were real when it eventually happened. You knew it was coming and you squared your shoulders, held your head up high (at that angle that was unique to only you)and bravely waited for it. You fearlessly prepared for it, and even dressed for it when it finally came. The dignity of it all!!
I was devastated. But I drew strength and courage from the carriage and attitude you had exhibited. Twenty five (25) years of being friends, lovers, confidants, husband and wife. Memories of you and our live together at every turn. Every place carried a memory. Every song heard brought back memories. Words from others or even on tv became triggers. My phone stopped ringing at that particular hour when you would call for office chitchat. The phases of grief and then emptiness, absolute void, but I trudged on as you would have wanted. I bottled it all up and tried doing my crying in the rain, but at times it would burst out spontaneously. Then I would remember and look at the most wonderful gifts you left with me, Sugar and Spice. They were more than enough reason to live, for you live in them! Each displaying different aspects of you.
Six years now, the tears have somewhat dried up and the sun dares to rise again. I have confirmed that we are truly tallest when when bend our knees in prayers!
Princess, your smile is perpetual, as indeed is the light that now shines on you.
Sleep on, Iyoo.