My Aunt Ann died this week.
She was my mom’s sister and my godmother, and she has been in the background of my whole life, a part of the family story. She had been living in a nursing home for nearly a decade, and the last stretch was not great, so I feel sad, and also relieved to know she went peacefully.
Ann was quirky and fun. She loved dragons, butterflies, and the color purple. She had this whimsical, slightly mystical streak, like she was always rooting for a little magic in the world, and she could make you laugh without even trying too hard.
This loss also feels very different for me than losing Jess. It is still grief, but it lands in a different place. More like a quiet goodbye, and a deep exhale.
Next time you see a butterfly, or a dragon, or something wonderfully purple, just take it as Ann saying hi. Pause for one second, smile if you can, and let that tiny bit of magic count in her honor!
Grief Heart Project 