Joy and Pain

I've been in Colorado for 4 days. I don't think I fully understood what my Uncle Joe meant to me, and to so many people that I love, until this week. At least I figured that out in time to say my goodbyes.

Death can do more than take away a life. It can tear apart a person's heart, cripple them emotionally. It can bring out the worst in people, allowing pettiness and resentment to choke out their humanity, leaving husks behind.

And death can bring people together, draw out the best of their character, shed light on their strengths and vulnerabilities, and have them rise as a phoenix from the ashes of the departed.

And that's my family.

-C.