Loss of a Warrior

I have been waiting to write this post. Almost 2 years ago, I lost my fellow warrior. My beautiful grandmother, Eileen. She raised 6 children, worked side by side with my grandfather on the farm, helped to raise all of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and was a breast cancer survivor. Unfortunately, 2 years ago cancer attacked her again and this time she lost her battle. I was amazed by her strength and courage. She always shared in my story, wanting to know how I was and what I was going through. She had great empathy and love. It was difficult to watch her slip away from us but we knew that Grandpa was waiting on the other side of the bridge. I loved her so very much and though I didn't know grow up on the farm or live close, she was an amazing part of my life. I wish that I had all of those moments that my cousins were able to have being right next door, but the times that we did have, I will treasure forever.
Shortly after my grandmother died, I was trying to explain to my daughter that we would not be able to see great-grandma physically anymore and that she went to heaven. I asked her what she thought Grandma was wearing in heaven, she said "wings and ruby slippers", and I totally agree. She is definitely dancing and having a wonderful time. I hope that she knew what she meant to me and how much I loved her. I miss her terribly and wish she was still here, but I know she is watching over all of us until we meet again.

Darlington (my hometown) also lost a warrior and a true hero. A young man was killed in Afghanistan. I have 2 brothers who are US Marines and I know that while they were deployed, we couldn't help but worry that one day that car would drive up to give us the bad news. Thankfully that didn't happen. Unfortunately for this family, it did. I hope that they are able to find peace one day and know that their son died doing the job he loved. My thoughts and prayers have been with them and all of the families that have lost their soldiers and Marines.

"Just remember this I'm in a better place, where soldiers live in peace and angels sing amazing grace." -Tim McGraw

Kiss your children and hold your loved ones close. Life is too short.