Time...

Happy Birthday Lalla...

Time doesn't heal anything, it just teaches us how to live with pain. The passage of time may take the edge of acute pain, but it does not heal pain. Time does not possess the power to resolve issues or trauma. Time won't automatically make things better. While some people may find that time brings a sense of closure and helps them heal, others may find that time brings up memories and fresh wounds that continue to cause pain.

Lilly, today is your birthday, and every year this day brings a bittersweet flood of emotions—memories of joy, laughter, and the warmth you brought into our lives, mingled with the sharp ache of loss that never truly fades. Each time this day comes around, it’s like opening a precious, fragile box filled with pieces of our time together—moments that seem so close I can almost touch them, yet remain out of reach.

I find myself remembering the little things that made you, you. The way your laughter could fill a room, brightening even the heaviest hearts, the kindness you showed to everyone you met, and the incredible way you had of making those around you feel seen and loved. Each memory, each laugh, each quiet moment is a treasure that reminds me how lucky we were to have you in our life.

Yet, along with those beautiful memories comes an ache that cuts deeply. The empty spaces left behind serve as painful reminders of the future moments we’ll never get to share. The conversations we won’t have, the laughter we won’t hear again, the milestones you’re no longer here to celebrate—all of it leaves an undeniable void. I find myself caught in this space between the joy of remembering who you were and the sorrow of realizing that you’re no longer here to create new memories with.

But even through the sadness, I choose to celebrate you today. I celebrate the life you lived so vibrantly, the joy you brought into every room, and the light that still shines in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to have known you. I am endlessly grateful for the love you gave so freely and the lessons you taught without even realizing. You left a lasting impact on everyone around you, and though it’s painful not to have you here, I find comfort in honoring all that you shared with us.

You live on in the small, everyday reminders—in the kindness you inspired, the laughter you sparked, and the strength you taught us through your example. The world is a little less bright without you here, but your spirit lingers, a gentle reminder to live fully and generously, just as you did.

So, Lilly, today I celebrate the gift of having had you in my life, even if only for a short time. I cherish every moment, every smile, every piece of love you left behind. Though you may be gone in form, you will always be near in spirit, woven into my heart and remembered with love. On this day, and every day, you are honored, cherished, and missed deeply.

Love you....

Happy Birthday my Lilly Lum!