Last night at sundown, I lit the ninth memorial candle for my sister Merna.

It’s hard to believe that nine years have passed since she died. My only sibling, my best friend, and my confidante, she is still so sorely missed. How many times have I reached for the phone to call her! But I know she’s waiting for me, wondering what’s taking me so long. (She always hated it when people were late.)

In the hope that she can hear me, I’d like to send her this message:

“Dear Merny (her nickname):

“Be patient, rest well, and be glad you don’t have to witness what’s happened to this world while you’ve been gone. Say hello to everyone for me; I’ll be along in due time.

“Love you and miss you. And I’m sorry I never said it often enough when I could have.

Brendy”

Just sayin’ . . .

Brendochka
10/24/26