September 5, 2013: Amy, sometimes I think we get messages just exactly when we need them. I was thinking about you when I got home, and moved a notebook from the counter. There was a scrap of paper that floated out from a magazine I cut out during a particularly challenging time in my life. There was a paragraph that had prompted me to save the page, and it’s every bit as meaningful today. “Your dark days. If you find yourself in a crisis, remember. Nothing focuses the mind, mobilizes the resources, and highlights your support system like a truly difficult situation. You will meet your strongest self at such times.”
I told you this today, and I want to shout it from the rooftop. You have shown such astounding grace and kindness in the last couple of days. You set your own grief aside to do everything in your power to make this transition “right” for everyone, from Stuart’s new partner, to his children, beloved granddaughter, and his far-away family. You were so gentle in communicating this terrible news to our darling Isabelle, and you have worked to honor Stuart’s wishes in every way.
You are the most beautiful person I know, and it comes from your very core. I am so blessed to call you my sister. I am thinking about you, and love you so very much.