Sister Mine, Sister Ours
Last Saturday we had a memorial service for my sister Suz. She died on May 20, before I had a chance to go visit her. I was waiting to be fully vaccinated before I visited because I didn’t want to risk getting her sick on top of the cancer she was battling.
It was a beautiful service, held outdoors in the sunshine. I wrote the poem below for her, which I read at the service. After the service we had tacos from a taco truck. They were her favorite food. We also had some of her favorite music playing. It was good to be able to remember her with others who loved her as I did.

My poem was inspired in part by this table, which Suz restored for me. It was in terrible shape before I gave it to her to refinish. The veneer on top was chipped and stained. The fold-down sides were loose. Many people would have tossed in the trash heap, but I loved that table. I love it even more now.
What she did for this table reminds me of what God does for us. We are broken, worn out, and stained, but He restores us. Jesus redeemed us and makes us a new creation. When we trust in Him, it is well with our souls.
Sister Mine, Sister Ours Sister mine I thought there was plenty of time For music and concerts to applaud Tacos, picnics, and talks of God Time is a thief we can’t control May it be well with your soul Sister dear You are now released from all fear Yet we are left here missing you All the wonderful things you would do The table you restored will console Reminds me it is well with your soul Sister true Lover of sunshine and skies of blue In beauty your garden will grow Peace in this life you did sow Your legacy on heaven’s scroll I pray it is well with your soul Sister love Set free on wings of a dove I shed tears at the days we’ve lost Your loved ones know the cost Of healing that was your goal I believe it is well with your soul Sister strong I hear angels sing you a song Music to remember you by Even as I question why Courage could not make you whole Still it is well with your soul Sister kind None sweeter will we ever find You often praised my poetry And encouraged creativity It is your talents I will extol In grace it is well with your soul Sister sweet One day again we shall meet With Mom, Dad, and Peggy too Savoring country music and blues Sitting atop a heavenly knoll Melodies to soothe your soul Sister ours Wife, mother, lover of flowers Grandma, cousin, aunt, and friend Our love for you has no end One day we’ll regain what time stole Now it is well with your soul Sister ours, Sister mine As we cling to hope divine Forever be it well with our souls
I very much appreciated your heartfelt memorial poem to your dear sister. How wonderful that you have the beautiful restored table, “It Is Well With My Soul” to remember her by.
Sincerely,
Barbie
Thank you. It’s nice to know such a personal poem resonates with others.
What a beautiful poem. ❤️ It’s so sad that you didn’t get a chance to visit her, though. The good thing is, as you imply in your poem and as Saint Paul says, “we do not mourn as those who have no hope.”
I’m so very sorry. I’ll pray for her
Such a wonderful and beautiful tribute.
I’m so sorry for your loss.