My dearest sister up in Heaven,

Well, dear sister, it’s been eight years since you left this Earth. Eight years since you have been at peace. Eight years since your body has been pain-free. Eight years since you have been reunited with our dad, grandpa, and other relatives who have gone before you. Eight years since you were taken into the Kingdom of Heaven, and God wrapped his arms around you. Eight years since you have been wrapping your arms around those entering Heaven who have no one to greet them.

And for all those things, I am truly happy for you and find comfort in those thoughts.

But, dear sister, there are many times when I am just sad. I miss my best friend. I miss having you to talk to. I miss your levelheadedness, your compassion for others, and your advice. I miss how well you knew me, which was probably better than I knew myself. I miss that you were always right (mostly:)) and I appreciated that. I miss that we grew up in the same house and the same town and could talk about memories that happened way back when. I miss that I don’t have you to share this life with anymore. It leaves the biggest hole in my heart.

And for all those things, I am truly sad and heartbroken.

So, dear sister, I will honor your spirit by sharing my memories with people who knew you and even those who didn’t. I will honor you by showing your pictures and videos to your children who want to know who their mother was. I will cherish your memory by looking at old photos and explaining the memory to whoever will listen. I will honor you by living my life to the fullest because I know that life is precious and at any moment I may be called up to sit at the table next to you.

And for all those things, I need to be strong and let your spirit guide me.

In the end, dear sister, I am grateful for the 38 years we had together. I am grateful for your loving ways and kindness that you carried with you throughout your life. I am grateful for my beautiful niece and fearless nephew, who are growing up into amazing young people. I am grateful for the loving woman, (one day to become their stepmother) and the amazing, fun-loving step-siblings you guided into their lives. Continue to watch over all of us, especially our mother, who misses you more than words can say.

We love you and miss you, dear sister. Send us Signs from Heaven to comfort us whenever possible. We will be on the lookout!