I started out with three sisters. When we were young we called them Sissy(Donna), Door Knob(Dornie) and Baby(Lorna). As the eldest child, I initially thought of them as toys, accessories, or just annoyances. As they and I have aged, I've been forces to revise that opinion somewhat. It turned out that they each had unique personalities and abilities. Each in their own way became indispensable members of the family.
The eldest, Sissy(Donna) left us several years ago. A victim of cancer like our mother before her. We lost a huge dose of happiness with her passing. She was without a doubt the most cheerful member of the family. We mourn that loss.
Yesterday we lost Door Knob(Dornie) also to cancer. Yes, cancer is a recurring theme in my family, but that's not what we are talking about. Dornie was the most responsible of my sisters. She spent a lifetime trying to organize her family, her friends, and of course her Labor Union and Her Political Party. You won't be surprised that she caused some friction with her organizing. That's how organizing works: you annoy people until the change.
In spite of her organizing tendencies, she was and is much loved. She was a steady source of energy for moving forward. There were always hugs and encouragement to go with her pushing. Her courage was enormous. Even those who were only acquaintances recognized that she would never succumb to fear. If you're wondering, I loved and approved of my sister Dornie.
Dornie was not religious and neither am I. I wish I could believe in a future life and that we
would see Dornie again, but we will not. I'm going to hold her in my memory and my heart for as long as I can and I hope you do as well.
