Donald,

Growing up you protected me in ways that shaped my life forever. As my older brother, you stood between me and harm, and you stood beside me through, at times, difficult years we shared at home. We were accomplices in understanding one another without words.

Your life was marked by honesty, generosity, and integrity, yet the greatest gift you gave me was being my brother. I would not have chosen anyone else Donald. No matter the challenges or your darkest days, my love for you was and continues to be unshakable. It is a love beyond explanation. Like the love for one’s children, or for a mother and father, something you cannot describe, you only feel.

A part of me left with you when you died. You left me behind. And yet, death feels less frightening now, knowing that one day I will go wherever you are, and that God is there with you.

Forgive me for the times I could not do more, for the moments life pulled us apart, for not always being there when you needed me. You may have left this world before me, but you are still here in my heart.

You used to call me Sister Moon, and I called you Brother Sun. Did we ever talk about how corny that is? (I smile through my sorrow.) I miss you and it hurts a lot.

I love you. Always.

Monica