So Many Goodbyes

I found this a month or so ago in my parent's attic. It's crumpled and creased, and the image is any thing but clear.

I'd like to think, though, that his laughter comes through loud and clear, across the years, across time.

I was his girl; he gave me a ring to prove it. For sure, I thought we were engaged! It didn't matter one whit that I called him uncle, because, you see, he gave me a ring and told me I was his girl.

He loved my mother and she loved him back. Out of a family of 14, only he and Annie graduated high school. She was first, and she pulled him along with her, never letting him quit when he wanted to do so.

Annie married her Eddie, and Chuck married his Shirl, and their children grew up together, cousins to the end.

He brought me paper, reams and reams of paper, salvage from the mill where he worked. I drew and I drew, and then I drew some more.

In the end, he was a lost soul, so much like my own father. He didn't really know where he was, and the twinkle was lost. He became oh, so very very quiet.

But, this is how I remember him, and I have to wonder, who took the picture? My mom, his Annie? Or my dad? I'm not sure, but once the camera clicked, I'd bet you almost anything that he pelted him or her with that snowball.

I lost him two nights ago, while I was at Art & Soul, he quietly exited this world. I know that Annie greeted him and welcomed into heaven, showing him around and showing him off.

There have been too many endings lately; so much has been lost, so much to grieve for. I have to say that it's wearing me down, and I'm finding it hard at times to remember what is so good right now.

And, as I type this, I can see him shaking his head at me, and I hear him telling me to get over it...to enjoy what I have.

And, if God sends me some snow, I'm throwing one in honor of Uncle Chuck.

So, so me a favor, because I really don't think I'm getting snow anytime soon. If you have some, would you please step outside, pick some up, make a snowball and throw it heavenward? Would you do it please? And, say hello to my Uncle Chuck while you're at it, cause he'd love it. He'd absolutely love it!

Comments

[Bev]

What a lovely tribute! If we had snow, I would make a big snowball and launch it heavenward.
So much loss fo you - I was so sorry to hear about your uncle. What a wonderful image of him and his Annie reuniting in heaven.
You'll be in my prayers. Take care of yourself.

[Sherry]

So sorry for your loss, but you describe great memories. No snow in my area either, but I'm sure he appreciates the thought.
Hang in there.