Yesterday morning my sleep was interupted by my mom saying my aunt had gone on to Jesus. Since I had been awaken from a deep sleep, it really didn't sink in.
I had time to think about it once I really woke up. This was an aun that as I child I thought was one of the most beautiful ladies in the world. She was always dressed nicely and cooked some amazing food. One thing about her...she collected salt and pepper shakers. I loved standing in the kitchen, looking at the shelves of set of shakers. One of the last gifts I gave her in person was a cartoon character set.
The last few years have been difficult for my uncle. My aunt had a disease that affected her body but not her brain. Towards the end, she was trapped in her own body.
One thing I really, really respect of my uncle is that even after he couldn't take care of her at home, he was always at the care home every day. He took care of what he could do. So many people dump off relatives and expect everything to be taken care of. Not my uncle. He was there making sure she was cared for, he talked to her, fed her. If that is not what "in sickness and in health" is, I don't know what it is.
Thanksgiving and Christmas were always so much fun at their house. Some of my most treasured memories as a child on furlough were at their house. The earliest memory of watching the Macy's parade was on their monster tv. I learned how to roller skate on their back patio.
This year for Christmas, my aunt will be with the true meaning of Christmas. I wonder if she will hear angels recount the events of that night so long ago. It kind of makes me jealous.
So Aunt Cherry, I know you will have a Merry Christmas. I pray that those of us left behind will too.
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