A blue Christmas

When you grow up as one of four sisters, you always imagine yourselves as "Little Women." I just never thought of one of us as Beth March. My 2nd youngest sister, Meg, died on December 16, 2021, having contracted a very rare version of an equally rare autoimmune disease that attacked her lungs.

Meg was working full time, taking care of her house, planning trips and making art — a month before she died. You can imagine what a shock it's been. Even more heartbreaking because Christmas Day is her birthday.

I've spent my life defining myself as a Brazill sister. I always picture the four of us standing together throughout life, much more than I think of each of us as individuals. We've lost our witty, wacky and wonderful partner — which means we will never be those Brazill sisters again. 

THE ONLY TIME THE FOUR OF US EVER ATTENDED A CONCERT TOGETHER: JONI MITCHELL IN TORONTO, 1972 (MEG'S IN PINK)

1988

1992

2004

2010

There are a few other photos taken of us together over the years, but these are my favorites. Living in four different states, we didn't get together as a foursome as much as we hoped we would.

The last time we were all together, it was a family gathering that included adult children, their spouses and children. It was a swirling mass of activity; so much so that we never managed to get one last picture taken of the four of us, alone together. 

Comments

[Kristin]

Oh, Linda, I am so very sorry for your loss. Devastating at any time, but especially so close to her birthday, Christmas, and when it was so sudden and unexpected.

[Elizabeth]

I am so sorry to hear that your sister has passed, especially so close to her birthday and so suddenly. A piece of you has gone with her. May the memory of her, your history together, and the laughter you shared together comfort you now. You are the Brazill Sisters, what you were, what you are, what you will be. I wish you peace.

[Barbara H.]

Devastating, I know, and it will take time to recover. Grief swirls around, presenting itself anew even a long time after. Grace, peace and healing for you, your sisters and all your family this very difficult Christmas.

[ceci]

I'm so very sorry to hear this. What a sad dark kind, but the pictures paint a lovely history.

ceci

[Christine]

My heart goes out to you. I am so very sorry for your loss.It is never easy to lose a loved one, and even more difficultwhen you are surrounded by the holiday season.

[Kris P]

I'm very sorry, Linda. The photos you've included here are evidence of the closeness you felt regardless of the physical separation imposed by geography. I hope you find solace in the history your share and can offer each other comfort in the face of this loss.

[danger garden]

The loss was heartbreaking enough, and then to have to face her birthday/Christmas without her, I am so sorry Linda.

[Susan Sobol]

I am so sorry to hear this devastating news, Linda. Wonderful photos, wonderful memories. My deepest condolences.

[Beth@PlantPostings]

Oh, I'm so sorry for your loss. How nice to have so many lovely photos and memories of the four of you together. But I'll be thinking of you during this difficult time.

[hb]

Condolences to you and your family for the loss of your lovely sister. Hold on tight to all the happy memories. They will help.

I lost my Mom very suddenly also and it was a terrible shock. It takes time to deal with something like that. Best wishes.

[Lynda Robinson]

I am so sorry for your loss. Such a strong bond between sisters will never be broken. xxx

[Frank]

I'm so sorry for your loss. What rich memories you've had together and for that you are all so lucky in spite of the pain.