For Better or Worse

As most of you know by now, my darling sister Debbie died last week after a very long journey with cancer. Deb and I were as close as two sisters could possibly be. Our lives were deeply intertwined. When she became gravely ill this past month, I basically stopped my normal life to be with her. When it became clear that she was in her final days, my soulmate, Brian, became my rock, my hero, and my soft place to land. He did this not just for me, but my mother, as well as Debbie’s co-workers and caregivers Julie and Fran. Brian, who is so wise–not only on how to live but he also understands the dying process–spent much of his time preparing all of us for the inevitable. With patience and grace — and with so much love – Brian helped us cope, understand and adapt on so many levels.

And he was present for my sister Debbie in ways that her soul yearned for. They had many deep conversations about where she was, and where she was going. She loved and trusted Brian so much, and with his support, she was able to come to terms with dying. He helped her see that something beautiful awaited and gave her the peace to let go. It made the end of her life her so much more profound and beautiful because she had someone to guide her through.

He gave of himself tirelessly, with devotion, patience, empathy, and buckets full of unconditional love. Brian wrapped us all in a down comforter of love and hugs that made the unbearable bearable.

As every moment left with Debbie became more precious, the true meaning of life became so obvious–we are here to give love, to receive love and to truly BE love. I was reminded how truly important it is for us to love and honor ourselves, to love those around us, and to purposely manifest your soulmate. I know how blessed I feel to know that my soulmate is by my side.

Today, I want to leave you with one of my favorite quotes from A Course In Miracles:
“The only thing that can be lacking in any situation is that which you are not giving.”

Wishing you love, laughter and magical kisses,

Arielle

P.S. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Debbie’s foundation www.thecollectiveheart.org for the Girl Power Project.  If you would like to share your memories and stories about Debbie, prayers for Debbie, or messages for her family, please visit www.RememberingDebbieFord.com