Dear Erin

Dear Erin,

As a young parent, it seems that you are the center of the universe for those little people in your care. You are the light that they revolve around, your own little solar system. You can hardly move without them at your side - in the bathroom, in bed, on the telephone.

As they grow and move away from you, at some point you realize that each one of them is actually their own light, shining forth into the world. The loss of your importance in their lives is bittersweet, you know that they must move out into the universe and you must stay behind. And slowly the awareness dawns on you that your light travels with them, shining on into the future generation upon generation.

I have seen your brilliant light in the eyes and words of those who you touched while you were here with us. I see it in Peyton's face as she sits surrounded by paper and markers and all manner of crafty stuff, making yet one more amazing piece of art. Nick's smart-assed comebacks have your signature all over them, as does his soft-spoken kindness and sensitivity. I have witnessed the same in your sisters and brother, who all illuminate the world around them.

I am so very proud to have been a conduit for the radiance that stretches back beyond memory and forward through all of my children and into eternity.

Shine on Sweetie Bean.

Love, Mom