Proud
This was inspired by Luke. He is the son of my cousin Jen who passed away in 2016 when Luke was 19. He graduated from University of Montana cum laude in May 2025 with a degree in Business. I always believed in him, and wanted him to have the opportunity of higher education if he chose that path. About 4 years after Jen passed he took the challenge, and enrolled in his mom's alma mater.
To say I’m proud is an understatement.
Graduation was followed by Mother’s Day. I felt not only the absence of Jen, but of my mom. It was an emotional weekend. It took me a few weeks to process. And I emerge again proud. Proud of both of us. Of the relationship we have cultivated. Of the maturity we have demonstrated. Of the loss we have endured. And of the love we have for each other.
