Can I be Pansy?

My great grandma Pansy was an incredibly kind woman. She would ask the birthday of everyone she knew, and sent them all cards every year. After she passed away (over 20 years ago), our family members started getting phone calls from friends and exes they themselves hadn't spoken to in decades asking, "Is your grandmother ok? I get a birthday card from her every year, but I didn't hear from her this year."

For me, it doesn't get much more poignant than that.

My brother broke up with his girlfriend. Everybody thought this was it - they'd get hitched, start poppin out little ones, etc. But instead, it has ended. I am absolutely there for him, and he seems to be doing ok. Thing is, I want to be there for her, too. Rough. Plus, it feels like she needs me in that capacity more than he does.

Weird.

So I'm doing it. I told him, made sure he was ok with it, etc. And of course, he's wonderful and supportive even though it's not the norm.... and I can't help but be inspired by Grandma Pansy.

Love.