Ed Olszewski
For those who don't know me I am Ed Olszewski and Shirley is my Aunt.
Since the time I was born my Aunt Shirley has loved me. I am 63 years old now. That is a lot of love for a long, long time that she sent my way.
My mom died when I was a child and between Aunt Shirley ( my mom's sister) and Aunt Ki (my dad's sister) they became my surrogate moms.
Their love soothed a child's heartbreak.
As a child you accept the love an Aunt gives to you. Without thinking about it, without thinking how valuable and special it is. It just is....and it is taken for granted.
Over time as I became an adult and went through the ups and downs that life delivered my way that childish perspective of Aunt Shirley's love changed. I would have long conversations with her. She would tell me about her and my mom's life. I treasured her stories. I got to know my mom because of Aunt Shirley.
I grew to love her even more as my Aunt but also as a wonderful and wise friend. She taught me to be content, to be thankful for what we have and to appreciate the simple things in life.
We always kept in touch throughout the years, talking about world events, our families, marriages, divorces, children and grandchildren. We would talk about how everyone was doing and when the next shipment of her homemade washcloths was coming :) .
Up until the time of her death she was current and real with what was happening in the world and in everybodys life.
Even as she was dying over this past month she was concerned about the trouble she was causing those who were taking care of her. She was more worried about what they were going through than her own suffering. It takes a big heart and an endless reservoir of love to do that.
I am so thankful to have known and loved her.
My Amazing Aunt Shirley will always be in my heart. I will miss her so much. I love her so much.