November 6th

The meaning of today is so much deeper than the day I celebrate aging. On this day, 7 years ago my grandmother passed away. I remember the day so clearly. I remember being there at my aunt's house as my grandmother rested as comfortably as we could make her. We were all around her, shedding our love upon her. She looked peaceful, she was working her way to the afterlife. I had found out 8 days before that I was expecting my first child. It was the day of my birthday. And I was there, with my family, experiencing a moment in life that will forever be close to my heart. Losing a loved one is never easy. Infact, it's downright hard. I have found it within myself to see the beauty of passing from this life; and that often is what comforts me when I feel the ache of missing my loved ones. Being with a person as they experience the final moments here on earth is an honor. It is perfectly orchestrated. There are moments where the body seems to be directly aligned with God's will. I find peace in knowing there is no longer suffering, but an infinity of beauty and walking with the good Lord. I believe I will be with my grandma again someday, and I look forward to seeing her again, and hugging her, and talking with her. I remember her sweet delicate voice, the accent that lingered from her childhood in Italy. I remember how she was perfectly proper when carrying herself and the smile of her's that included her entire being. I remember her standing by the stove as she made her spaghetti dinners on Christmas. I remember her calling me "Labelle". I remember her daily and I miss her daily, and today is the day I celebrate with her.
This day is no longer *just* a birthday, it's a day I share with my beloved grandma.
Anna Angelica Pancotto Latoria
~June 13th 1921-November 6th 2002~