Sulustu

A year ago, I made a commitment to honor the 13th of January. 

As I've mentioned in the past, this week is a difficult time, a week-long series of anniversaries connected to my father. On January 5, my father would have been 65 years old. He passed away on January 8 exactly 19 years ago, and we buried him on January 12. 

It has always been hard, but then a year ago, I was reminded that life continues and that we have to be grateful for all our loved ones who still live among us. I was also told that if I observe these days, then I have to remember that the 13th of January is a day for new life, a day to be thankful, and a day to honor the next generation. Life doesn't end. 

So today, I really felt the gratitude, the love, and the connection to spirit. 

In honor of this time, I started a watercolor portrait of my father, shown above. It's not done yet, and I'm not even sure it's a good representation, but I don't care. It's a prayer in art.   

This is another portrait that was painted by my cousin Christa Garcia. Our families have been apart for many years, but she has recently found her way back. She truly honored me with this painting, but I have not had the heart to share it until now. I wanted to wait until the right time.