Finding out later in life that you have another sister is a joyful surprise! Trifana joined our family over 30 years ago and I am so very grateful for the love and spirit she brought with her. Our family grew in ways I never thought possible or could have ever predicted. When we lost our mother, we grieved together for the brief time they had together, but celebrated the glorious mysteries of her life, and the passion with which she knit the bonds of family fervently. Trif's family became our family. There is nothing more precious. My whole heart is with Kevin and Nicole and Kevin's family. I pray they are surrounded by love at this time. I look forward to when we can all be together again and we can honor Trif's memory and hold each other close.
I cherish the bond that Trif and I shared as sisters and as friends. Our love of creating led to many experiences and moments together within the craft community and the realm of owning a "one woman" business. Her insights and support were invaluable to me. We were kindred spirits with a passion for filling the world with our art.
Our mother's inherent love for the ocean is something all of her daughters shared. The shores of Maine have been the setting of cherished memories, renewal, and tribute for our family. Trif's passing occurred while our sister Kim and brother in law Rich were in Maine this past week...I felt her presence everywhere. She was in the sunshine of the Golden Hour and within the breezes from the gently rising tide. There was an inexplicable rainbow, without a cloud or raindrop in sight...I saw Trif's spirit in the vibrant colors as they touched the glittering sea. It was an amalgam of the love and loss I was feeling...but one of beauty as well. As it faded, it was a reminder of of how fleeting time is. It reminded me of a hymn I grew up singing. It was one of our Mother's favorites. I will close by including it here:
I brought my spirit to the sea;
I stood upon the shore.
I gazed upon infinity,
I heard the waters roar.
And then there came a sense of peace,
some whisper calmed my soul.
Some ancient ministry of stars
had made my spirit whole.
I brought my spirit to the trees
that loomed against the sky.
I touched each wand’ring careless breeze
to know if God was nigh.
And then I felt an inner flame that
fiercely burned my tears.
Upright, I rose from bended knee
to meet the asking years.
Words by Max Capp
Music by Alex Wyton
Love you Trif. I will miss you dearly.