She Brings The Light

We recently experienced a deep loss in our family — the kind that leaves a room heavy with silence and thick with emotion. As we gathered to honor and remember our Uncle Den, a life that meant so much to us, it was hard to express our grief.


But then, Emma walked in.


With her bright smile, her warm hugs, and her genuine joy at seeing family she doesn’t often get to visit with, Emma lit up the room — just by being herself. She didn’t understand the weight of the day the way we did. All she saw were faces she loved. And in that moment, she reminded me of something incredibly powerful: even in sorrow, there can be joy. Even in darkness, there can be light.


Emma has always had this quiet, beautiful gift. She doesn’t try to change the world — she just does. With her laughter, her kindness, and her excitement for the smallest things. She doesn’t even realize the impact she makes, but I see it. I’m blessed that I get to see it daily.


Grief can cloud even the brightest day, but Emma doesn’t let it dim her light. She simply shines. I am constantly amazed by her ability to live fully in the moment, to love without reservation, and to find connection wherever she goes. She teaches me daily that joy is not something we chase — it’s something we choose. And sometimes, when we’re lucky, it walks into the room wearing the biggest smile while handing out hugs.

Emma Sue, you will probably never know how much light you bring to this world. But I do. And I hope I can spend the rest of my life making sure others see it too. You are a true blessing to everybody, even on the dark days.