In loving memory of my precious niece, Tracey Dellen, on her 40th birthday.

I can't know why some things happen ... but I know that love and beautiful memories outlast the pain of grief.

And I can know that there's a place inside the heart where love lives always and where nothing beautiful can ever be forgotten.

I thought of you with love today,

But that is nothing new.

I thought about you yesterday

And days before that too.

I think of you in silence,

I often speak your name.

Now all I have are memories

And your picture in a frame.

As I opened my eyes this morning, I looked to the heavens above,

I whispered Happy Birthday, Tracey,

And sent you all my love.