My Aunt

My aunt passed away from cancer yesterday.

I know now she is cancer-free.

I know now she isn't in pain.

I know now she went in her own home and

not in some strange hospital room.

I know now she is peaceful.

She was diagnosed not too long after my mother died of cancer.

And now, she's left us just a few days shy of the anniversary of my mother's passing.

So I'd like to think that she and my mom are chatting up there,

telling stories and laughing about the brothers they married

and the kids and grandkids they had.

About the lives they had.

This song was written by Karla Bonoff, sung by Linda Ronstadt.

Makes me weepy hearing it.

But it's for my aunt, and for my mom, and for all those I've known and loved

who are no longer here.