She was my closest friend, My dearest companion, My strongest support. She was my fiercest competitor, My most frequent confrontation, My harshest critique. My sister, my friend -h.e.m.

God spoke, but I did not hear Him, not then. Instead, I held you, propped in my arms while you slept deeply, slipping away. I watched the grey, heavy sky loom over the ocean. My heart felt heavier than the snow-laden clouds as my memories…

Girl sitting on cold cement, hungry, shivering, watching spectators enter the Garden oblivious to her existence.   Young man walks by, noticing girl who has before hungrily accepted his offering of a sandwich and hot coffee. His own pockets light, He once again proffers sustenance….