Friday, December 27, 2024
Aunt Marie (Big Marie) was a kind and gentle soul, the first person I ever recognized as an aunt. How lucky and blessed I was to have her as the first in my village—beyond Mom—to teach me, guide me, and show me how to act and carry myself in the world, especially as a little kid. I’ll never forget her kindness or the way she treated me, like another son. She was always pleasant, always positive, and relentless with her words of encouragement. I never left her feeling down; even after a well-deserved scolding or some motherly advice, I always walked away feeling lighter, happier, and wiser.
She also holds the honor of introducing me to so many firsts: my first movie theater experience—Pinocchio (the original); Cheerios; salmon cakes; yellow cake with chocolate icing; and, most memorably, her pound cake. To this day, I haven’t tasted a pound cake better than Aunt Marie’s, and I doubt I ever will.
She was the epitome of grace and humility, and I—like undoubtedly so many others—am deeply grateful for the blessings and support she gave me early on. Rest in peace, my dear Aunt Marie. Thank you. You will never be forgotten.
