I Miss You, Charlie

August, 2026

Dear Mom,

I can hardly believe that I got the news about Charlie’s death six years ago. It does not seem possible. I will never forget that last weekend in August.

Charlie and I always enjoyed an hour long conversation on Saturday nights. We talked about family and memories and what we were each doing in our lives. Charlie loved our children so it was always fun to share with him their latest adventures.

That Saturday night I called at 8, as usual but he did not answer. Sometimes he would go to his favorite coffee house but he would always leave me a message that I would listen to on Sunday morning. That Sunday there was nothing.

I went down to the water to meditate. That morning I saw the most wondrous sunrise. The colors and reflection on the water appeared as 2 angel wings. I had seen similar sunrises before. However, that morning there was a perfect blue heart in the middle. I had never seen that, nor have I since that morning. But I understood.

I went home and called his neighbor. She banged on the door but nothing. However, she did tell me that she had seen him drive up to the door and rush in at 7:45.

The police arrived, broke down the side door and found him sitting on the couch right next to the phone. But he never heard it ring because he died at 7:50. His body never moved.

I was shocked and heartbroken. I lost Dad at 26, you are 40 and Charlie at 68. I ran out of family.

I did not even know what to do but the police said I must find a funeral home. I had to google one but I was fortunate. They were very helpful, cared for the body and helped me with the next steps.

Mom, I really miss Charlie and our conversations. I could talk to him about anything, including you and Dad. I miss that so much. I am always a bit envious when I hear my friends visiting their siblings–and sometimes even their parents.

But writing those letters to you taught me that you are all still with me and that brings me great comfort. Although I wish I could hug you all in person one more time, I will be forever grateful for the time we had together.

Charlie and I wrote weekly, carrying on the family tradition. Three days after his death, I received a letter from him, as though he had no problem in the world. I will always cherish that letter.

Thank you for teaching me how important our families are and how to stay in touch, reach out, and above all, love!

Love,
Helen