Sunday, May 4, 2008

sister's



i was always putting myself
in my sister's place, adopting
her credulousness, and even her
memories, i saw, could be made
mine. it was isobel i imagined
as the eternal heroine- never
myself. i substituted her
feelings for my own, and her
face for any face described.
whatever the author's intentions,
the heroine was my sister.

its image on the mirror
~Mavis Gallant 1964


My sister Jessica called me when we discovered Charlie had cancer. I will never forget hearing the tone in her voice when I answered the phone. It was grief stricken, it came from the core of her soul and she was hurting for me. When our dad got cancer, we were in it together . We were there for each other, always. She expressed to me that she wished she was here for me now during this time in the same way. Circumstances have changed; she lives in the bay area, is married and has two little boys to take care of. I know that she would be here with me if she could. I have no doubt about that.



About two months ago, my sister called to let us know there had been an accident where my brother-in-law Erik worked. He had broken his neck in two places, his leg and fractured his lower back. I wanted to be there for her but was unable to with what was going on with my own husband. I felt so torn. I couldn't understand why all of this was happening.



My mom went to visit my sister recently and brought my sister's birthday gift to me back with her. With everything that has happened in both of our lives, it has been very difficult to get together. The top photo is the birthday card that she had given me and the poem is what she wrote inside. As I read what she had written, I started to cry. I have always felt like she was the stronger one, and the one that I drew from. I have always felt she is a woman to be admired for her achievements and qualities... she has always been my heroine!

My sister... I love and miss her.

12 comments:

  1. Very touching.
    It is good you have each other, even when you are apart, you seem to be near. May God bless you and strengthen you both.

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  2. Angela,
    You made me cry in a good way. You two girls have always been, in the words of Mr. Miagi, "different but same". Your individual traits complement each other very well and you are both strong and beautiful.

    I am so proud of the wonderful women you both have become and am proud to be your aunt.

    Love and daily prayers are sent to your families from all your dad's sisters.

    xoxoxoxo

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  3. What a beautiful post, Angela. I think there is nothing quite like sisters.

    Today all three of our girls had brunch with us before Jill had to go back to San Diego.

    I'm glad our girls are close sisters.
    Love and Hugs
    Wanda Mom

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  4. I have to agree with Aunt Jeanne
    you two are different and the same in many ways. I love this about both of you cause you both compliment each other so very much I know your dad, Grandma and Grandpa are watching over everything.
    I have to admit reading this gave me good tears as well.
    I am so proud of both of you and proud to be one of your Aunties!

    love and hugs
    always

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  5. fristers love you too!

    ;)
    xo d

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  6. I hate it that you're going through so much! (You and your husband are still in my prayers)

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  7. You and your sister are both dealing with difficult situations. I'm glad you are close, even though you aren't able to see each other as often as you would like.
    Sisters are special, I know I love mine dearly.
    Sending love to you both
    xxx

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  8. I bet Jessica could have written this posting. It would have the same meaning and impact.

    Keep the faith. Continue to love each other. And, most importantly, continue to...

    Serve with integrity, care about those you serve and share the love in your heart/soul.

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  9. I miss Jess so much! Nice post mom. Makes me think of sis. I'll call you tonight. I love you mom.

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  10. I forgot to say thanks for the pictures of my two special nieces. ;)

    Great pics. Bring back good memories.

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  12. You are so blessed to have her. And she, you. I have one like that, too. Don't know how I would have survived so many things without her around.

    Love you.

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