Nine years ago today my beautiful, brilliant, incredibly creative and fun sister Pura Maria went home to be with my parents and brother. She was my little mommy - she read to me, took me to museums, comforted me through every heart ache and reminded me every day that I was worthy of love and happiness. Pura had an amazing way to bring joy to every occasion. Whether it was pulling you to your feet to dance (with or without music!) or laughing uncontrollably prompting everyone to laugh along with her. She left us way too early - I'm now older than she was when she went home. Her life extinguished in a violent relationship. I cry every day that I couldn't save her. I warned her repeatedly and then after our brother Arthur died I told her if she returned to him, I would bury a second sibling. Three months to the day my nightmare came true. I don't want to end this on a sad note. Pura is free from pain and fear and dancing with Mommy, Papi and Arthur with her angel wings. I have two incredible nieces who I adore as if they were mine. I am so blessed to be their aunt. Let's make a promise to do whatever we can to help women and men who are trapped in violent relationships. We can make a difference. Pura - there isn't a day that goes by that I don't pray for you. I love you forever. I promise - through prayer and the incredible people I'm blessed to have in my life - you have not died in vain. We will make a difference and that is why we are here.
~ Mercedes Colwin ~
2020
