For Kris

I write this with the heaviest of hearts.  We lost a truly special woman on Sunday night.  My Aunt Kristin passed away at hospice after having spent the last 5 years fighting to get her life back after a leukemia diagnosis.  Although she became cured, unimaginable side effects from her disease slowly yet ruthlessly claimed her body.  There is no end to the mental and physical trauma that she endured along with her family these last 5 years.  I know she no longer suffers but I’m left feeling utter despair that someone as genuinely beautiful as Kristin has been taken away too early.  What did my Aunt give me?  She gave me humor and selfless love.  She showed me how to not take myself so seriously and that although life is full of choices, sometimes there are higher powers calling the shots.  Her magnetic personality could warm a room and made you just want to be near her.  She also had a way of making you feel like the most special person in the room, even these last few years.  I am honored by her life and will feel an indefinite humility at the grace with which she accepted her fate. 

She leaves behind her loving husband, Frank and two beautiful daughters, Maja and Kai Le, 3 devastated sisters and a slew of adoring family and friends.  Ultimately we cannot be sad because Kristin wants us to live our lives out loud and with the courage and strength she taught all of us by simply being herself.  

Rest in Peace Kristin Norland Becker.  Kristin's obit