Just yesterday mornin’, they let me know you were gone– James Taylor

There were so many things I wished I had said to you that day. You were my cheerleader and one of my biggest supporters. You were so selfless- more worried about me- as you told me, “Ashley, you have young children” in referencing my current cancer battle. I told you that we play the cards that we are dealt and friends you played yours so well. Your light shown so brightly for me and others to see.

My friend, you’ve now gone, to watch over us from above. I’m going to miss our talks. Your light has been passed on to me and friend; your light will still shine. The torch of representing this dreaded disease is not extinguished when one of us passes away. It is simply passed on to the next. I carry it with pride for the ones that have gone on before me.

The words I wished I had said: “Thank you for loving me and sharing in your battle. Thank you for being so kind and accepting me. We didn’t know each other in another life but I loved you in this life. Thank you for showing me what grit and determination look like and your faith- well there are no words to accurately describe how faithful you were to God, your friends and family. I love you.”

Rest now friend. I’ve got it now.

-Ashley