This past week has been surreal but today it becomes reality. I keep asking myself,” How can a mother & father bury their son?” Growing up in Jersey City, our family went every Sunday to Mass at St. John’s, a beautiful church filled with mosaic, stained glass and marble statues. We always sat on the side near an alcove with a statue of the Pieta, Mary holding the lifeless body of Jesus. As a child, I was always mesmerized by this piece of art but never fully understood the agony etched in her features, that is, until today. Our faith is strong and so is our family. If one member is cut, we all bleed so together we will all heal.
Through tears I viewed the amazing dedication to Justin Marc’s life in the video his family has lovingly created. If I was a stranger viewing this, I would say what a wonderful life, filled with so much love and happiness. As his aunt, I would say what a wonderful nephew, filled with so much kindness and love.
My favorite picture of Justin is of him as a child in the pumpkin patch with a smile to brighten the gloomiest day. I’ll carry this special part of him deep in my heart to lighten my darkest moments.
Be at peace.