Memorial Day for Sister Jackie

[hensylee]

As many of you know, my sister, Jackie, was killed last year in a violent way. I miss her every day. A couple of weeks ago I found a letter sitting right here by my computer tucked away in some stuff. She wrote it to me about 12/1968! It was so prophetic, but she couldn't have known she would fit the picture 40 yrs later. She was missing me because husband, children and I had moved far away to another state. I don't know of any other poem she wrote in her entire life, except this one.

Jackie was not in the military, but she was an all-American. She contributed greatly to our country via politics and civic matters, church, etc. She was well-known in this state and in some circles in Washington, therefore, this day is fitting to remember her, along with our others who have served this country:

AN ODE TO A LOST SISTER

I wanted to talk
to someone close today
But
there's only an empty place.

My heart was lonely for girl
talk yesterday
But
there's only an empty place.

I wanted a shoulder to cry on
last week
But
There's only an empty place.

What will become of my feelings
from day to day
When
There's only an empty place.

-Jackie Malone

When you miss someone, there's only an empty place, isn't there.

 

[Mary]

Ann,
I will remember Jackie in the special prayers I say on Memorial Day. I will also remember you. It is a bittersweet holiday, due to the beautiful season of the year, but one that holds such promise of better days "a coming."

 

[Karlynn]

Something tells me you didn't find that old letter by accident. Wishing you fond memories to sooth your aching heart.

 

[Marguerite53]

how lovely of you to share

how lovely of you to share

Thanks Ann. I think Karlynn may be right, that letter was meant to pop up for you that way. I'm sure she is still with you in many ways.

The first thing my husband and I heard on the radio today was the name of a boy, a senior at my daughter's high school, who was killed over the holiday in a senseless car crash. I do not know if she knows him well, the name is not familiar to me. She's up early to study for a final. These kids have 3 days left of school before graduation. I'm not sure how to tell her.

Lives taken so suddenly and violently are a serious, stunning loss. My heart goes out to all of those who have experienced it. I know our small community will be grieving.

Thank you for that lovely poem.

Marguerite

 

[Harrybaby666]

Hi Hensy....Here's wishing you peace

Hi Hensy....Here's wishing you peace

As you get through this rough time of missing your sister. I hope you are doing ok and will get through this with speed and grace. Your in my prayers and thoughts. Harrybaby666