by Melody Landeros

Created on: August 28, 2011

Gordon gently held the hand of Sylvia; staring into the familiar face he shared a life with for countless years.  Her once black hair now silver lay against the hospital pillow.  ‘Where did the time go?’ He mused. 

Thinking back he remembered how family argued against his moving Sylvia into their life when he married Connie. 

“What will you do with her?” their voices echoed.  “She’s nothing, but a burden.  You need to make a life with Connie.”  He shook his head clearing their well-meaning, but misplaced words.  Not one day did he regret his decision, and Connie bless her heart, supported him all the way.

A sharp alarm shattered the stillness and Gordon sprang to his feet.  “Nurse,” he shouted.  “Come quick.”

A nurse entered, reset the alarm and said quietly, “Gordon, you know it’s just a matter of time.  I'm sorry.  This alarm will continue to sound as her breathing slows.”

Gordon sighed and sat taking her hand once more. He thought about the twists in life.  Life had been so easy for him, a successful career and family.  For Sylvia, life held a different challenge.  A two-minute difference in their births resulted in Sylvia’s mentally challenged condition. 

Even the smallest task challenged Sylvia, but she had a spirited determination.  Her warm smile and loving personality never ceased to amaze him.  Gordon never hid his sister, and insisted Sylvia had as “normal” a life as possible. 

“I am going to miss you Silvia, more than you will ever know,” he whispered, one tear rolling down his cheek. 

A rustle in the bed caught his attention.  Momentarily Sylvia opened her eyes.

“Gordon,” she whispered with that familiar twist to his name. 

Gordon smiled.  “Sylvia it’s about time you woke up.  You are such a sleepy-head.  Love you little sister” he teased gently.

Sylvia looked into his eyes and whispered “No sad.  Be happy.”  Her peaceful loving face smiled and she gently squeezed his hand.  She closed her eyes with a sigh and the heart monitor squealed loudly one last time.

“Goodbye” he whispered.

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