Dear Children and Grandchildren

Dear Children and Grandchildren,

Daddy/Zaidy’s petirah was so unexpected. We were catapulted into requirements — kevurah, shivah, legalities — across two continents. The immediate and ongoing arrangements were carried out in a fog of sadness. Now, it’s hard to believe that we’ve already passed the shloshim.

At this point we’ve returned to “real life.” I admit that it’s difficult, and I’m a little scared. I feel as if I’ve undergone an amputation without anesthesia; part of me has been ripped away, and the pain is excruciating. Nevertheless, days still dawn, and life, albeit changed, continues. I’m still Mommy/Bubby, and I hope you accept what I’m going to request.

Please don’t wrap me in foam and netting like an esrog. I’m not that fragile. Some bumps and bruises are inevitable in life, and I can handle them.

I’ve always been rather independent, and I don’t intend to change my personality at this late date. When I ask for your opinion or help, I want you to be honest — even if you know I might not like it. The final decisions, however, remain mine to make.