Whenever life hits in the most challenging of ways I am amazed by the resilience of the human being. The horrific events in CT made me pause, take a breath, and feel more fully. In 2002 my family experienced a loss when my 5 1/2 year old sister died in a skiing accident.
Loosing a child is devastating and I have only experienced it as a brother. As a parent I imagine the feelings of grief and despair are amplified. It seems so unnatural to see the life of such a young one pass so quickly. I struggled with the ‘why’ for many months.
What I am most grateful for is that my family took time. It took me about six full months to slowly begin to come out of the haze of robotic life. It took others longer, over a year to get back up, to compost the anger and grief, and to step back into living once more.
A part of my heart will always be broken and in some bizarre way I am thankful that I was able to dive into the well of despair, to heal, and to allow for the love and support of friends and family.
To this day I still think of Leonie and celebrate her life. Her sweetness, grace, intelligence, beauty, and loving presence. I feel her.
To all those in pain and the long journey ahead, blessings!
Asher Koach, may her spirit be elevated by love and kind acts in her name and honor,,
Danny, your sister was beautiful and a gift, however short her life. Blessings for you and your family and may her memory live forever.
Deb
Felt your grief and your love. Thank you for sharing such a personal journey. Much love,
Thank you for opening space to experience the Connecticut tragedy through a different lens. I too have lost a sibling at a young age- though not quite as young as your beautiful sister. I would like to borrow your beautiful words~ compost anger and grief~ for they really give a visual to changing something of potential waste into nourishment for future beautiful and healthy growth.
It is good to remember how fragile life is and that tragedies can come at any time, not just at the hands of violence. Her pictures are so joyful. Thanks for such a heartfelt share.