Death. On why they hurt nearly a year afterward.

The 1st anniversary of my grandmother's death won't be until January 11. 2007.
But, experiencing firsts this year is going to be difficult.

My grandmother died at the hands of an incompetent surgeon or physicians assistant. To this day we're still trying to learn the truth.

My birthday is in 4 days. It will be the first without her. Thanksgiving is in 3 days. It will be the first without her.

I received a check in the mail today from my grandfather. I'm not sure what hurt the most? Seeing the check that she always signed. Or only seeing his name on the check header. Then, it will be Christmas, then New Years. Then, the anniversary of her untimely death. She was 66, not old. Not unhealthy. A wonderful lady that loved all of her grandkids and spoiled them all.
I was the oldest grand-daughter. After having 4 sons and 4 grandsons, I finally made an appearance. It was interesting, being the first girl. Although, a bit challenging as well. It's funny when the emotion hits you. It comes from nowhere, you're never expecting it. But it can be something as simple as a check. Or something as powerful as a picture.

One thing is for certain, death never let's us forget.


With the Holiday season upon us, I always marvel at the ability of people to care about their fellow man, then turn it off as though it was a faucet.


Why must we only care during certain times of the year? I know this is a cliche' idea. But, it's one that's worth repeating.

I spoke with a woman tonight, her group is adopting two families in the community. Their biggest problem was trying to surreptitiously procure the sizes of the children in the families.
So, why can we not do the same? Lack of time? Lack of money? What about a lack of heart? Yes, granted, there are people out there that abuse the system, that are perfectly capable of going out an getting a job.

But what about the man that was laid off? His wife, used to being at home with the kids, is now making minimum wage at the grocery store. They can barely pay their bills, let alone buy frivolous presents. Their spirit wouldn't be frivolous, but why buy your kids presents and not buy them food?

What about them? Or perhaps, the elderly couple down the street. Both live on Social Security, although, that's just enough to get by on. What would it hurt, to buy an extra pumpkin pie, buy one extra can of cranberry and take it to someone in need?

Or do something daring. Go volunteer this Thanksgiving, in a homeless shelter or soup kitchen.

Not quite brave enough? Just remember, every little bit helps.