THINKING OF MICHELLE & 9/11

THINKING OF MICHELLE & 9/11

Today I am thinking of September 11th, a very sad day for myself and my family. This is the day we remember my step-sister, Michelle Herman Goldstein, in front of the world, but for us, we think of her every day. I think of Michelle often, but more so in August because her birthday brings memories of her rushing back. Then, as 9/11 approaches, I think of her more and more.
As the years pass, I find I become more saddened by 9/11. I wonder what her life would have been like; how many children she might have had by this time; how her husband feels on this day; how her sister mourns for her, especially during hard times; and mostly how her mother, Ingrid, is pain stricken by the loss of her daughter. I especially feel for Ingrid on this day. Every day is so difficult for her and 9/11 must be like holding her breath, waiting for this day to pass and moving so slow. Thanking people for their thoughts and prayers, making a public appearance, just getting dressed in the morning and leaving the house. How hard this has been for her.
I am also saddened about the decreased amount of memorials that are being held for 9/11. I know life goes on and people have to move forward, but this day should always be acknowledged. Todays younger generation should be informed of this act of terrorism and also be given the option to mourn.
So today I remember Michelle, sadder than I was last year. I cannot understand how this happened and I have fears for my children now as well. But today I will try to just think of Michelle and her big, bright smile. She only got to hold my oldest child a few times when she was born, ironically on September 10th , and she never got to meet my youngest. Would our children have played together? Would Michelle have moved back to Florida?
A black and white wedding picture of Michelle sits on my dresser and every day I pass it. It is a great picture of a crowd of about 100 people, all dancing and celebrating, no one looking at the camera, except Michelle, smiling. It is one of my favorite pictures...how funny she is the only one who looked. I think of her wedding day often. What an event, everything was perfect down to the first dance to “At Last”... ballroom style. This is my favorite memory of Michelle and I will cherish that day always.
So today I am thinking of you dear step-sister, remembering how funny you were and bright and bubbly. God bless you and your lovely soul and God give your family, especially your mother, the strength to carry on without you near.

All my love,

Wendy

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADDigK8LwyE