Tina
My darling sister, you left us so young at 46 years of age.
There is only two years between us, so I don’t really remember what life was like without you.
It feels as though you have always been here.
It has always been my role to protect you, sometimes well, sometimes badly, but always my intention.
It has been a privilege to share those years with you, I wish there could be more.
I wish we fought less.
I am inspired by the fight in you.
You said others acknowledged your courage and bravery, but for you it was another day to be with your boys.
You are a fabulous woman, a wife, daughter, sister, grandmother and a pivotal part of our family.
Foremost you are a fabulous mother. I always knew that was your calling.
Family was so important to you.
You are a fragile soul who wanted to love and care for those around you.
You have brought three beautiful young men into the world. Such a gift.
All unique in their own way.
Yet when I look, I can see with clarity, the same caring nature and expression of love you shared.
Your legacy will remain in each of them and all of us.
You also have a love and devotion for your husband Jon, who you wanted by your side each step of the way.
He meant it when he said in sickness and in health.
You left too early but forever in peace.
Now each of us have to find our peace within that.
Some will be collective and some will be individual.
We have seen the world together through the eyes of tears and sadness, but mainly through love and laughter.
You are caring, considerate and generous in your love for others.
As sisters we chose different paths and a way of being.
Yet we were joined together by our similar outlooks, humour and love for each other.
I am proud of what you have achieved and the person you are and always have been.
I am proud to say you are my sister.
I adore you.
And whilst those paths may have generated physical miles between us, I have never in my heart been separate from you.
I will continue to be there and be near to you, with all of my love, always.
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