My cousin Chris Souza, ten years ago.
In Northern California, my extended family, 60 first Cousins, 22 Aunts and Uncles, 112 second cousins, and too many to count third cousins, formed a foundation of love, faith, and togetherness. We are more than just relatives; we are a close-knit family, a community, and a source of unwavering support for one another. Growing up was an extraordinary experience, a daily affirmation that I was never alone.
Our lives were woven with joy, sorrow, and celebration threads of many hues, and every month seemed to bring a new chapter of our family story, whether it was the union of a wedding, the solemnity of a funeral, or the promise of a new life at a baby shower. We took part in each other's happiness and well-being.
We went to school together, shared in the laughter and excitement of birthday parties, marked the seasons holiday gatherings, and found solace and purpose in our shared church activities. Even when we were physically apart, our connection remained unbreakable. We would chat on the phone, write heartfelt cards, and pray for each other's welfare.
Our parents' deep love and closeness were at the core of our family. They modeled the importance of nurturing these bonds, passing them down by examples of love, respect, and unity.
As I left home and moved to France, I realized what I had grown up with was a rare gift. I understood that the joy we shared would also be the source of strength during times of sadness; I understood that love would be measured by sorrow in saying goodbye many times.
In recent years, we have faced heartache and loss. We have bid farewell to family members, each one leaving a void in our hearts. But even in the face of these painful losses, our family bond has shone brightly. In these times, the goodness of our love truly reveals itself. We mourn together, support each other, and remember the beauty of the lives that touched ours.
A few days ago, my cousin Chris died from a sudden and tragic anaphylactic shock. In the midst of grief, our family rallied together again, a testament to our unwavering bond. I remember Chris for the love and faith he showed us and for reaching out to all of us in our time of need. He wasn't afraid to show his heart; he would visit any of us when we weren't well or in need. You might say he wore his heart on his sleeve, but I would say he carried it in his bare hands. When we were in high school together, he often took me home by the way of Foster Freeze for a chocolate malt and French fries. My mouth waters just thinking about it, but not as much as my sorrow for his sudden death.
Our family is a testament to the faith of love,
it is a wellspring of
Compassion and hope that lights our way.
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