AttentionMax

My cousin Ariel died a few hours ago after a three-year bout with bone cancer. She turned fifteen a few months ago. I’m relieved her suffering has ended, and her spirit can be free. Ariel underwent hell, but still was the epitome of optimism and selflessness — always, even until the end. I’ll always remember and aspire to that.

I especially feel for Ariel’s mother, my aunt, who’s been by her side the entire time. Not surprising, they had an especially strong and rare bond. She has a long road of grieving ahead.

I’m not religious, but I thought I’d repost this “Bible Verse Of The Day,” which appeared on Ariel’s Facebook page today:

Ecclesiastes 7:14 When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, a man cannot discover anything about his future.

The next few days are all about Ariel, but this chapter underscores why you must cherish every single minute you have alive with your loved ones, especially your kids. I came straight home today and hugged Julian, and hugged Laura when she got home

Finally, speaking of Facebook, I just checked and discovered the first few goodbyes have already arrived on Ariel’s Wall.

We’ll miss you, Ariel

UPDATE: the local newspaper’s obituary.