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