Happy 30th Birthday, Kylene.

You graced us with your attendance three decades ago today. And although you physically passed from this earth six years ago, your presence resides with us still.

You were an inspiration to us as we comprehended your insurmountable physical challenges. Instead of dwelling on yourself, you aspired to give service to others. You loved and embraced everyone in your family, then reached beyond to accept, without judgment, those good souls who just needed a friend. You so rarely complained, giving a smile to every person who deserved one and some who did not. You wanted little in return. Actually, all you required was what others already possessed: respect, appreciation, dedication to others, and love in return for love given.

You set a shining example, one that continues to sparkle to this day, and which shows no sign of fading. So many have so much more than you started out with; a fully functioning body being the most obvious. And yet, they do so much less with what they have, than in the short 23 years you possessed. Oh that we would all take a lesson of compassion, unwavering love, and a true tender devotion to others. What a better place this world was when you were in it!

We keep you alive in our hearts and in our home. You have touched so many others who have vowed to keep your memories alive as long as they are still breathing. You accomplished so much more in your 23 years with your dignity and truth than those twice your age could ever hope to achieve.

You were loved from the first moment we knew of your being. You were a gift to us from the first moment we laid eyes upon you. You were the perfect addition to our family. You made us complete. You made us proud to be called "mommy" and "daddy". And we were "to the moon and back" ecstatic to call you our daughter! Whether we remember you on this day, the day of your corpuscular being or the day you went back to your Heavenly Father and made that your first angel birthday, we wish you peace from pain, happiness, but above all, love. You were and are loved for all eternity. We are told we are only given our children for a short while, borrowed, if you will. How were we to know or ever be satisfied that you would be here so briefly? We struggle with the realization that we were blessed with you, Kylene, and now we have to face the remainder of our lives without you. We will ALWAYS love you. You are our candle in the darkness called Earth. Gone too soon.

 
Love forever and always,
Mommy and Daddy