Cousin, Debbie Drawdy, writes comforting words all the time. But as Mom's faithful pen pal, I was moved by this last letter and she allowed me to share it here. I believe some of us can relate and benefit.
"You have enriched my life with encouragement, kindness and caring in word and deed. Your perseverance in adversity inspires me to do better and you have made so many good memories for me and so many others. I'm enclosing a paraphrase of a poem by Lori Eberhardy; it reminds me of our relationship, so I tweaked it a bit, for you, dearest of aunts.
Fortunate
Life is filled with many gifts and you have been one of my dearest treasures. You add value to every part of my life, giving me a love that is worth more than gold.
You've shown me how to live deeply in the little moments of my life and
I celebrate our journey, for you've taught me that when my heart is open, happiness will find me.
You have contributed to the joy in my heart and the solace of my soul; and as time keeps moving it brings me closer to you, the kindred spirit I know.
Each day I celebrate you being a part of my world. As I blow a kiss your way, I know that in THIS life, I will forever be the Lucky One."
I will always love and remember you, dear heart. Debbie