Words

from Gail Holstein,
Aunt

Many Native American people hold the belief that every being is born onto a circle. It turns for as long as it is meant to turn. While on the circle, every being has work to do. A life may be long or short, the circle large or small—but in the end, the circle is always complete.

Little Luca did his work very well in the time he was with us. I believe his job was to bring joy and wonder to his mother and father, his brother, his grandparents, his uncles and aunts and cousins, and everyone who had the great pleasure of knowing him. Luca’s circle was complete.

Nobody gets through this life without pain.

But as someone told me once, though I didn’t believe it at the time, someday that pain will bring you a gift. The gift may be an insight, a deeper understanding, perhaps a lesson you aren’t aware you need to learn. You’ll recognize it when you see it.

When I told Cassia this, she politely declined the gift. Having your heart broken isn’t something to wish for. But I know that eventually, the people who loved Luca will discover that even the anguish of losing him carries something of value in it.

The pain will pass. The gift will remain.

Gail

(Words spoken at Luca Holstein Albers’ memorial service, 21 March 2008.)