Now, we are home, trying to get into a routine of living together post-holidays. Just as we were beginning to look towards this week of no medical appointments, no school, some work - I received a call that my grandmother, Rose, in Chicago died on Sunday. At 93 years old she had been unable to move or speak verbally for over a year, and for a few years before that dementia had ravaged her memory, but not her longer-term memories of her Polish language, her childhood, and the earlier times with her husband Frank (my grandfather, who died in 1989). She often had martinis "with" Frank before she could no longer speak. These seemed comforting and sad for her, but she always managed to see the good in situations and in each moment. She had an infectious laugh and my mother describes times when she and her sister and her mother would simply laugh at nothing until all were in tears!
Now I am preparing to travel to Chicago on Wednesday to say my final goodbye to her. So much change, so much leaving, so little ground under my feet.
The groundlessness of these last few months have led Cyril and I to describe our life as flying - not so much by the seat of our pants, but with the wings of our hearts and with the wind of faith in each other and wind of the love of our friends and family beneath us giving us lift!
We wish you all a year of abundant blessings of health, happiness, clarity, compassion, strength and clear skies!!
I bow to each of you in deep gratitude for all the gifts you have so generously offered to me and to Cyril. Thank you from the bottom and top of my heart.
Shalom, Salaam, Shanti, Peace,
Karuna
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| Grandma Rose & Karuna September 2006 Villa Park, IL |
