I remember exactly where I was the day John F. Kennedy was assassinated fifty years ago today. I was in Grade 8 English class - I remember the room, the seat, the teacher, the classmates around me. I remember the shock. I remember walking home with my friends, talking about the potential implications for world peace. I remember sorrow - though I had very little political awareness of Kennedy's strengths and weaknesses, I knew him as a handsome and charismatic world leader and on that basis alone had come to admire him.
It was one of those moments in time that is forever burned in my mind. There are others: I remember vividly the first time there was a test of the air raid sirens in my town during the Cuban missile crisis. I remember vividly the first time an astronaut walked on the moon. I remember vividly the moment I heard the US announce the war in the Persian Gulf. I remember vividly the moment I heard of the Twin Towers terrorist attack.
And I remember vividly the middle-of-the-night phone call telling me my sister had suddenly died. It was two years ago today. It may not make the history books but it was life-changing for my family. And I will never forget.
Miss you, Big Sis. Love you forever.
2 comments:
Hi Jean I was just emailing Bev and remembering Carole as well. She was a dear friend.
Aileen Pickard
I just woke up not too long ago, and my eyes are soggy from catching up on your posts from the last month.
I'm so sorry to hear about your mum's passing, Jean. She lived to a grand old age and had such a full and adventurous life. What more can we ask for really.
I also read Shiloh's story and now, this remembrance post for your sister. Words fail me. I'm just glad Shiloh is now with you.
Big hugs from somewhere very south of you x
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