This is my special person and guardian angel.
A special person in my life is my auntie. As a young kid, she used to pick up my sister and me from school, then she’d take us to the store and let us buy anything, without worrying about the financial situation because of how polite and giving you were. After that she would take us to our cousins house and also give back to them because of how committed we were to giving back to the community. My aunt also served as a second mother to my dad. Every day and night he prays over a picture of you, as he views you as his guardian angel, and so do I. My dad knew when he experienced difficult situations he could call us because of how much you cared for not just him but our entire family.
Even throughout your hardships during cancer, you checked up on us every day because you wanted to ensure that even after you may move on with God, you will still watch over us, care for us, and love us. You were a person who wanted change not for yourself but for the entire community you were around because you knew without change no justice could be brought, so daily you fought for justice, helped people, and overall strove to make a difference. No matter what, you made sure you were at every event someone may host because you wanted to make your appearance clear and be there because you wanted to show that you supported and loved them. Even though you’ve moved on, I’m sure that they think about you every single day because you made sure to be there, be noticed, and show up.
To me, my auntie wasn’t just family. She was warmth, laughter, and love wrapped into one person. She made me feel valued, respected, and loved. Her presence could brighten any room she came into; if she gave you a hug, you would feel okay. No matter what had been happening to you at that time, it would always have a positive effect on you. Even though she’s no longer here physically, her spirit continues to guide and protect me always. Every day, I know she strives and continues to look over my family, whether it’s cheering my sister on at track or simply praying for us. All of this is to convey that, while she may be gone from Earth, she will never be gone from our hearts.
To end this tribute off, I’d like to say that my aunt’s life was a powerful example of unconditional love, generosity, and the strength to fight. To this day I still believe she’s the one who truly taught me how to care and be a person for others. Every day I still continue to miss her; I still act like she’s here and carry her mindset with me each and every day. No matter the person’s race, ethnicity, or anything, I will always treat them like my own, just like she does. She was and will always be my guardian angel.
Kaiden Morgan-Tanner – St. Ignatius College Prep – DMSF Class of 2029
Photo Credit: Kaiden’s family