I promise I will try to be strong enough to let you go ..
When Christmas was a mess, you would tidy it and somehow make it pretty and believable again.
With you? Santa was a real thing and you refused to have it any other way.
Visions of the sleigh lead by reindeer dance across the Tasmanian sky in my mind — one of my best childhood memories. If I concentrate hard enough I can still hear the chime of the bells igniting wonder in my infant eyes.
It takes a special kind of auntie to make that memory stick 25 years on.
But that’s exactly what you were, special.
When my home was temporarily unavailable, you were my safe home.
Best known for your chow mein and the ability to make any room look beautiful.
Also known for your swift head slaps when a swear word departed a child’s mouth. One I remember all too well, even in my adult years.
If I could gather all the beauty and strength in this world and tuck it inside of someone for safe keeping? I choose you. Because you would guard that shit like your life depended on it.
Nobody messes with Auntie Darlene.
50 years young, and 5 years of suffering. “I don’t want a fuss girly” you would say.
But you were ready to fly a long time ago, but you waited it out, letting your wings rest beneath your tired should blades.
Angel patience.
When every organ in your body slowly said “no more” you put it in its place and looked beyond the pain.
You held on like the god damn super hero you were, you waited until everyone else was okay with this, until everyone could say goodbye.
I know the universe is not your thing, but I sent a special wish today, for every tear fallen for you, you get first pick on the best handbags in town.
Prepare for handbag heaven.
Because as you say, “Jess, a girl can never have too many handbags”.
Heartbroken for your departure.
Rest in Peace Auntie Darlene, forever in my heart.
Because you were strong for us, I promise I will try to be strong enough to let you go.
