A Piece of me Died Today...

It was just before sunrise when my cell phone rang. My first thought was "it's a little early in the morning to receive a phone call, even for a Happy Father's Day". But that wasn't the purpose of this call. My 'baby' sister, Tammy was calling to tell me that my 'little' sister, Tonia didn't wake up this morning. Of course, she was hysterical, her words barely understandable through the gut-wrenching cries. It still has not quite sunk in yet. My little sister passed away today. And with her passing, a piece of me is gone as well.

She was the little kindergarten kid who got more than her share of spankings because she'd waited for her big brother at the playground so that she wouldn't have to walk home alone. There was also that summer she decided that it would be fun to play little league baseball. It was fun while it lasted, but she'd shortly loose interest. I won't have anyone to tag along anymore. A piece of me died today.

We walked to school together from as far back as I can remember; from grade school through high school. She was always there, we were always together. I'd say: "Let's go this way today, I think I know a short cut". Never a fuss, there'd be no opposition. She'd gladly go. My sidekick, traveling companion, is no longer available for the ride. A piece of me died today.

We argued over television programming choices. Her "Happy Days" to my "Bionic Man". She'd eventually get her way. Later I'd be introduced to a slew of daytime soap operas; a summer habit I carried off to college with me that fall. I never understood the "Laverne and Shirley" humor, but it was right up her ally. My since of humor will never be the same. A piece of me died today.

One of the most generous and devoted people I've ever known is no longer with us to give of herself, her time, and understanding. My love for her is strengthened in memory of her life, of our lives together. Her memory lives on, but a piece of me is gone for good. A piece of me died today.

I Love You Little Sister!

God be with you!

I'll miss you...

Tonia Michelle Dill
September 30, 1968 - June 20, 2010