Goodbye is only a word
I used to think that I could write. I used to think that I had the ability to form words into phrases of articulate paintings that reflected my thoughts and emotions. I guess that I was fooling myself because I cannot write the most important words that I have ever needed to write. I find myself lost, searching for the perfect combination to describe one of the most beautiful souls that I will ever know. I am trying to say goodbye to my sister.
If you and I should ever meet, and if, as we are talking, you sense any traits of kindness and gentleness, then that is from my sister. If you notice compassion, sincerity, and a comforting smile, then that is from my sister. You see, people like my sister have a way of not only making other people’s lives better, they make the person themselves better. Without knowing it, my sister has made me a better person. By watching her raise her children in a loving home, I have become a better father. By listening to her words, I have become more humane, more sympathetic to the needs of others. By knowing her, I have become closer to God.
Maybe the day will come when I can sit down and write the perfect eulogy for my sister, the one that she would never ask for, but the one that she truly deserves. At the moment, I am struggling just to say goodbye.
Goodbye…it’s only a word…but, I think that it is the most painful word that I have ever written.
Farewell, precious Kim, I love you. One day we will see each other again, and we will be able to forget that goodbye was ever a word at all.
Leisa Kim Bollman, September 24, 1961 – February 15, 2006. Beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Thank you for being such a comfort and inspiration to those who were blessed to know you.
Take care.
wow. . . you’re really sweet to your sister.
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omg Mark, I am so sorry…so so sorry. :::deep hugs:::
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oh and its me Taire (name change)…this hit me so hard..she was born the same year as me..and I remember how close you were…you are in my thoughts and prayers.
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you do have the words – they’re right here. It says it all.
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I don’t even know your name, but I wanted to extend my condolences to you. I’m so sorry for your loss. May you be embraced by comfort. And, unbeknownst to you, you did have the words to say good bye — you said it so beautifully right here. Jere
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So bitter sweet for me to read, as I was so happy to see you had written an entry..but upon reading, was so sad it was under such circumstances. What a lovely tribute to, and gift for, your sister. Obvious how special she was, and always will be to you! My thoughts are with you, my friend!
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Mark, I’m so terribly sorry. I agree with what others have said – your entry is a beautiful eulogy. I send you my warmest thoughts of comfort during this difficult time. If you need a shoulder, my e-mail is ceejay_666@yahoo.com Hugs, Carole
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I can’t fathom your deep sense of loss but do hope you are comforted knowing that a part of her lives on in the difference she made in your life and character. God bless you in your time of loss and may He grant you peace.
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I honestly hate the word “goodbye”…I perfer, Will see you again, seems better….my prayers are with you. hugs
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You describe your sister so beautifully, indeed a loving tribute that is probably too early to bring comfort. In time you can go back and read this, and smile as you remember her lovely soul and spirit. I am really sorry for your loss.
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i’m so sorry. *hugs*
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I’ve lost a brother and a sister and I know it a pain like no other. What you wrote about your sister here was beautiful. I’m so very sorry for your loss. (((hugs)))
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Saying goodbye to those we love is such a hard thing. I know the feelings you have right now and they aren’t easy ones. My prayers and hugs are with you now. Much Love Cathy
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It’s so painful to say goodbye to someone we dearly love. I can tell how much you love your sister and the way she inspired you and those around her…your words are more than beauty, more than comfort, more than peace…I think you’ve written something great for her, to mourn over your loss in a peaceful way. Your entry really brought tears to my eyes. Love and wishes for you all…
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I am certain this was very painful for you to write, and you did it beautifully. My prayers and condolences to you and your family**
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I am praying for you constantly. I am just so sorry. I wish I could do more. What you wrote about Kim was perfect. I know you’re not looking for that but I have to say it. You are beautiful and so is she. I am blessed to have known you both.
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She would be so proud of you. As she ALWAYS was. My heart aches as I read this, but brother, it is the “perfect eulogy”. Love your lil sis
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Sometimes, I think the best “words” we can say about someone else is through the language of our life. The eulogy for your sister is spoken with every kindness that you do and with every gesture of gentleness that you offer. It sounds like she was a very special person. May her memory continue to be a blessing for you.
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