For Stacy

by Ruchi
 
For Stacy
(Starkoff)
of blessed memory
 
It's been 30 days now.
Judaism has a lot to say about 30 days.
 
30 days before a holiday, we're supposed to prepare.
And 30 days after a passing, we are supposed to memorialize.
Take action.
Renew the inspiration.
 
So here we are, Stac.
It's been over 30 days.
 
Time to take stock.
Remember you...
Your optimism
even where ours failed.
Your joy in life
even when our eyes filled with tears.
Your desire to find meaning and draw strength in every challenge
even where we felt weak and scared.
Your presence at classes
because you wanted to be inspired
and you inspired us in return.
 
Our joy at your clean scans
our sadness at the setbacks
our worry for the future
all paled in comparison to your faith
your strength
your clear vision
even
at the end.
 
May your beautiful soul dance
in its perfect and healthy state
where you are now
looking down at all of us
smiling
cheering us on
sending us love
pain-free.
 
But for us
the pain remains
the hole in our hearts
each time we think of you
each time your name comes up in our contacts in our phones
which we can't bear to delete
 
So think of us as you dance
pray for us as you sing
and know
that we will never forget you.
 
In honor of the memory of the soul of
Shmuela bat Eliyahu
May her soul be bound in the bonds of life forever.