The Vigil Ends: Shalom
At 2:30 PM, Linda stepped through the gate.
She was serene, unstruggling, and—true to her character—completely certain. She never cared for indecision. After waking briefly yesterday to reaffirm her love, she began the quiet work of letting go.
I had the rare and heartbreaking privilege of kissing her goodbye and speaking “Shalom” over her as she departed. She is no longer in that tired body; she is at rest.
I have retired to my studio now to attend to the necessaries and wait. To those who see me as “hard” in the coming days, please know that I am simply holding together what is fragile. She has earned her peace, and I am honored to have been her witness until the very last breath.
.. r
aka
…geo
Rusty's Armory 
February 19, 2026 at 3:51 pm
Love and prayers from Larry and me.
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February 19, 2026 at 4:08 pm
Have never thought you hard, nor will I now. Do what you must. Know your friends care. We will be here when you return.
M
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February 19, 2026 at 5:40 pm
I wish I had words to ease your pain but knowing there are none, I’ll just say you are in my thoughts and hope the beautiful memories of your wife can bring you some measure of comfort and peace.
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February 19, 2026 at 5:46 pm
I am so sorry for your loss. I know the pain you feel right now and I could say all kinds of things, but like you told me when my daughter passed a five years ago —sometimes there are no words. As for you being “hard” , you be “you” right now. When my daughter passed, I could not even cry. I was the one who had to be strong for my other children and for her children. I know some people thought I was hard, but those who knew me, knew better. All of us love you and we want you to take all the time you need. You will be in my thoughts and prayers and one day, if or when you decide to write again, we all will be here. Heck it took me a LONG time to write after what happened and I still really don’t write much. Take care dear Sir and know your lady really is at peace.
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February 19, 2026 at 6:14 pm
We are so sorry George!
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