Aunt Carran

I was 3 ½ years old when I met my Aunt Carran.  From that day I had a beacon of light to guide me when I was most lost.  She taught me how to be brutally honest by having an amazing knack for accepting me and loving me just as I was in every moment of growing up.  She never held back her opinions and advice and never let me hold back with her.  Usually I’m good with words, but somehow, tears just come to my eyes and I feel my throat closing up. I pause, feeling like nothing I say would ever measure up to what she has meant to me.  Aunt Carran was instrumental in my growth and healing.  She told me stories of the past that helped me to piece together understanding and empathy for myself.  She scolded me when I was pitiful much like a mama bear redirects her young away from danger…..firm and loving.  Aunt Carran, this is a pathetic attempt to honor you…..I knew this day was coming and I knew I’d never be ready.  I’m not.  Death is natural but so hard on the living.  Thank you for being a trailblazer, for your strength, encouragement, wisdom, tenacity and all around bad-assery.  I’m going to miss our weekly calls and your avoidance of face-timing me.  Thank you for the hope you instilled in me. 

Rest easy Auntie. 

#BoxOn!