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A big heart.

I’ve always looked up to her. I mean, as a younger sister, it’s hard not to look up to someone older than you, cooler than you and prettier than you. But those aren’t the reasons why I looked up to her. Sure, she’s absolutely beautiful, incredibly fun and one of the wisest women on the planet, but, beyond that, she has the biggest heart. A heart that gives and gives until it hurts. A heart that doesn’t have boundaries. A heart that doesn’t even know the definition of hate, because within her being, there’s only room for love. She is my big sister. My confidant. My role model. And this week, four years ago, she solidified herself as my hero.

I remember sitting in my sister’s living room, the night before her surgery, as she handed my mom an envelope. You see, my sister had been diagnosed with a brain tumor a few weeks before and had chosen to attempt to remove it. She instructed my mom to give the letter to her children, Nick & Kenzie, should anything happen. Though I had tears in my eyes and the heaviest of hearts, my beautiful sister Cyndy was the opposite. She was as strong as I’d ever seen her. Yes, she was scared but moreso, she was full of faith. She knew that she had prayed enough and given enough and if she put things into God’s hands, all would be well. I never knew what was in the actual envelope but looking back, the words aren’t important. What sticks out in my mind was her selflessness. At her deepest and darkest hours, she was making arrangements for others to feel comforted. And loved.

She survived that day, and lots more since. So today, I wanted to close the week off and dedicate this post to her to let her know she is loved. My dear sister. I’m so inspired by you. By the way you live your life. The way you hold your children. The way you love your husband. The way you love, unconditionally. You don’t wait around for an invitation to love, you just do it, wholeheartedly. I admire your willingness to always give more than you can. You are one of the strongest, most gentle women I know. I’m thankful everyday that you are my sister. My life is a much better place with you here, with me, on earth. I love you Cyn!

Us on my wedding day last year.

Disclaimer: I have another sister, a brother, a mom, a dad, nieces, nephews and friends. I may write about them from time to time. Just saying…

11 comments
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  • CherisseMay 21, 2010 - 7:39 am

    You two are stunning! Your words about your sister brought tears to my eyes. God is Good! Thank goodness your sister survived and I can see why she is your hero 🙂 You & your family are blessed.

  • RoomieMay 21, 2010 - 7:46 am

    Um. Tears. Wow. I remember this all like it was yesterday. I’m so happy that everything turned out as great as it did. But I mean…I kinda knew everything would be ok. Cyndy is a tough cookie! Her positive energy will get her through anything!! Beautiful post Roomie. You’re so lucky to have such a wonderful family! Love you guys!

  • Megan WelkerMay 21, 2010 - 7:48 am

    what a beautiful post Ala!! Your sister is so blessed to have someone like you too!! She is so very inspiring!

  • gladys jemMay 21, 2010 - 7:48 am

    wow. im teary. this is beautiful. your sister is beautiful. makes me want to go call my sister and tell her i love her. thanks for writing this!

  • CMay 21, 2010 - 7:56 am

    Wow, beautiful post! Brought tears to my eyes… Very inspiring! Thank you for sharing…

  • AllisonMay 21, 2010 - 8:55 am

    What a beautiful post Ala! Thank you for sharing something so personal and inspiring!

  • KathrinaMay 21, 2010 - 10:40 am

    Big sisters are the best. And well yours, she sounds awesome.

  • KimberlyMay 23, 2010 - 9:16 am

    You both are beautiful and amazing! I love your words, they make me cry.

  • LaurenMay 23, 2010 - 10:46 pm

    you have me in tears! you are amazing with your words ala!perfectly spoken…Cindy is amazing and so glad that you shared how amazing she is with everyone! -lots lof love-

  • NeaMay 24, 2010 - 10:47 am

    This is a beautiful post and one that makes you appreciate those in your life.
    xoxo,
    Nea

  • Karina MaciasApril 16, 2011 - 7:21 pm

    Beautiful picture! By far, my favorite wedding session by Jasmine Star!!

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