Tuesday, December 16

Dear Granddad

This is perhaps to personal a letter to just throw on the world wide web. Disregarding the fact that you never spent any time on-line and don't know English. I'm confident enough in my own unimportance to address you one last time without fearing for my privacy.

You were the last grandparent I had. And it frightens me a little to feel the links with my past weakened. But I'm not sad. You loved so much and were always surrounded with people that loved you.To the last day.

I can't be sure that you didn't suffer and I can't be sure that you were proud of us and happy with us, but I know that you cared. And since you use to care so much I promise I'll eat my soup next Sunday. And every Sunday after that.

The very best and safe journey!

Saturday, December 6

The Last Man Standing

My last remaining grandparent died last night.

It seems unreal. I've always thought of my grandfather as a grumpy but well-meaning giant. A Giant.

And he was old and so far as I can tell he's had a good life but all the same it means goodbye.

And what does goodbye really mean when there won't ever be a next time?


Monday, December 1

Red Ribbon

A classic sight on this website, on this day every year, a red ribbon. Because the fight continues, because postponing isn't good enough, because no one chooses to be sick, because every one must be aware of the risks and be taught how to keep safe, because giving up is too easy.