Catholic Life and Reflection

A dear friend of the family, who I called Aunty, passed away last week and I went to Brisbane for her memorial. It was a true celebration of the smart, kind, and compassionate woman she was.  In the 1970’s Autism was not understood but she provided a safe and loving environment for my siblings whenever we were with her, although David, her youngest son would hide his Lego when he knew we were coming!

When family members were speaking about her, they constantly referred to her showing up, completely accepting who they were and the choices they made and always, always being pleased to see them. She loved a good party not because of the food but the people. She travelled around the world to see her children perform, listened to poetry written by grandchildren, and reveled in swimming lessons.

She is the kind of woman I want to be. Show up, love unconditionally, and be involved in the small and big things that make up life. I am sure you know people like this. Aunty Anne-Mari was one of the most Christian people I know but she did not belong to a faith community.

A reminder that it was what we do and say in our daily lives that makes us who we are. Do everything with love.

Thank you for all those people in my life who show me what it is to LOVE.

Vale Aunty Anne-Mari.